Middlebury Bee December 2014 by Mario-Design

“He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.” ~ Epictetus

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Volume X, No. 30

December 2014

P&Z rejects Quassy cottage plan By TERRENCE S. MCAULIFFE 10 or so owners in attendance, said executive board meetings The Middlebury Planning must be noticed to members and Zoning Commission (P&Z) and Gail Hanley, an HOA board at its Nov. 6 meeting denied a member, said she had no Lake Quassapaug cottage ex- knowledge of the board appansion. It also renewed per- proval. Smith told Hanley and mits for Benson Woods, ap- Molder their issue was internal proved modifications at Quassy to the association and conAmusement Park, continued a firmed he had an approval lethearing on changes to afford- ter signed by Butkus. able housing regulations, apIn commissioner discussion, proved a change in use for the Erika Carrington questioned former Golden Age of Trucking the percentage of expansion in Museum and agreed to write a the application, saying it was letter of opposition to the pro- absurd to include the square posed Oxford Airport power footage of a porch in the “beplant. fore” calculations and not use An application to expand a them in the “after” calculations. 1,161-square-foot seasonal cot- Attorney Thomas Riley, repretage at 2 West Lake Road on senting purchaser Paul Largay, Lake Quassapaug was denied said the confusion is in the orwithout prejudice, meaning it der of the description of the could be resubmitted in the ordinances. The original footfuture. The expansion was first print was intended to include proposed Sept. 4 with a foot- all the porches, etc., but the print of 3,500 square feet. That resulting structure did not have was reduced to 1,869 square to include it in its calculations. feet Oct. 2. Commissioners had Carrington acknowledged the questioned sewer and water calculation was allowed in an capacity for additional expan- earlier approval but said, sions but were told by West “There needs to be a time to Shore Homeowners Associa- stop.” She also said “I think it tion (HOA) president John But- was disingenuous to be led to kus the systems were able to believe the homeowners could support expansion of every be sort of a guard dog on these unit to three bedrooms and had applications, and it’s not.” received approval from all necThe application by Middleessary entities. bury Land Development LLC Town attorney Dana D’An- for renewal of an excavation gelo said zoning regulations and grading permit for Benson required approval from adjoin- Woods at North Benson Road ing cottages as well as HOA was approved for another year approval before expansions after the applicant’s counsel, could be considered. She told Jennifer Yoxall of Carmody & commissioners a letter from a Torrance, offered cookies and West Shore homeowner ques- joked with commissioners tioned that approval, but about applying for the 11th Chairman Terry Smith said a yearly renewal since the project letter from Butkus, not present started in 2002. Benson Woods at the meeting, affirmed HOA is an age-restricted community executive board approval of the of 79 homes and a 1,200-squareexpansion. foot community building. Mark Steve Molder, an HOA mem– See P&Z on page 5 ber representing some of the

Middlebury Volunteer Fire Department Chief Tony Bruno sits at the desk in the chief’s office Nov. 8, the day before he was elected to the position. He had been appointed acting chief on Nov. 6, the day the FBI arrested then-Chief Paul Perrotti on charges of embezzlement. (Marjorie Needham photo)

MVFD chooses Tony Bruno as chief By MARJORIE NEEDHAM Middlebury Volunteer Fire Department (MVFD) Chief Tony Bruno moved from acting chief to chief in just a matter of days. When then-Chief Paul Perrotti was arrested by the FBI the morning of Nov. 6, Middlebury First Selectman Edward B. St. John appointed Bruno as acting

fire chief. He had been a first deputy chief, second in command under Perrotti. Perrotti’s arrest came six months after the FBI came to Middlebury in May and seized files, one or more computers and various other items from the Middlebury firehouse on Tucker Hill Road. The November arrest came shortly before the MVFD

Middlebury has new K9, Jay The Middlebury Police Department is introducing its newest member, K9 Jay. Jay was acquired recently from a reputable supplier of police K9s and has been living with his handler, Officer Ed Demers, a veteran K9 officer. Jay has been receiving some basic training from Demers and is expected to undergo formal training at the State Police K9 Academy beginning in February 2015. Demers said Jay has been coming along nicely. He has brought the dog to the police station several times to acclimate him with the personnel and the environment. The department’s current K9, JJ, a yellow Labrador retriever, is set to retire in the near future after 10 years of service. Demers said JJ knows retirement is coming; on several occasions when he has left him home while he brought in Jay, the new K9, family members told him JJ “whined all day,” a sure sign of separation anxiety.

The community as a whole was extremely generous in aiding the department in the purchase of Jay. As of early November, the department had received more than $10,000, which will more than cover the cost of the K9 and anticipated equipment and some related training expenses. Police Chief James Viadero, speaking on behalf of himself and the police department members, thanked the community for their generous donations. He said Jay will be an integral addition to the department. It is anticipated that he will graduate from the training academy in April and at some point thereafter be cross-trained in narcotics detection. Viadero said it was great to see the enthusiasm and interest the fundraiser for a new dog generated. Numerous letters of thanks and praise were received from people who said the current K9, JJ, had impacted their life in Jay, Middlebury’s new K9 officer, sits obediently next to a Midsome way during his career. dlebury police cruiser. (Submitted photo)

Inside this Issue

Fire Log........................... 8 This is a Hammer........... 12 In Brief............................ 6 Varsity Sports Calendar.... 8 Library Happenings.......... 2 Winning Ways................. 8

Editorial Office: Email: mbisubmit@gmail.com Phone: 203-577-6800 Mail: P.O. Box 10, Middlebury, CT 06762 Advertising Sales: Email: mbiadvertising@gmail.com

Upcoming Events

Community Calendar....... 5 Senior Center Events....... 4

The day before the election he said if he was elected chief his goal would be to have everyone in the department working together with great morale. He stressed the importance of public trust, which he said he would work to regain if it was damaged by Perrotti’s arrest, and he said he would maintain an open-door policy in the department. He said members meet the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the firehouse and the meetings are open to the public. “This is not a one-person operation,” he said. “We’re still a team, and we work together.” Of his job as chief, he said, “I’m only here to pick up the pieces and keep this department together for the department and the community.” The FBI said a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment charging Perrotti, 47, with three counts of theft from programs receiving federal funds. It is alleged he embezzled more than $70,000 from the MVFD and used the money to pay for unauthorized personal expenses and for expenses associated with his electric company. It also alleges Perrotti submitted invoices to the Town of Middlebury for MVFD expenses that were instead related to his business. It further alleges he used an MVFD Home Depot credit card and an MVFD debit card for cash and purchases not related to the MVFD. Perrotti appeared in court and was released on a $250,000 bond.

Middlebury Police Department Food and Toy Drive

Book Review................... 2 Library Lines...........................2 Classifieds..................... 11 Region 15 Calendar........ 5

annual election, which was set for Sunday, Nov. 9. The 44 voting members attending that election unanimously elected Bruno by casting one ballot for him. Bruno thanked them for the vote of confidence. St. John said, “He’s very experienced and will do fine. He certainly has my support and the town’s support.” Bill Stowell said, “I think he will bring the department back together again. It was too fractured before. Now it won’t be a one-man show.” Interviewed the day before the election, Bruno, 44, said he is the divorced father of three girls ages 7, 10 and 16. He moved to Middlebury from Waterbury 22 years ago. His love of firefighting started at a young age. He said, “I lived near a fire station and always loved seeing the trucks on the road.” He said he used to visit the fire station when he was 10 or 11, and he knew then he wanted to be a firefighter when he grew up. He worked as a fire inspector at Uniroyal Chemical in Waterbury from 1993 to 2001 and now works for the state of Connecticut as a department of health fire marshal. He said his union contract will allow him to respond to Middlebury fire calls. He said David Greene Sr of Middlebury introduced him to the MVFD. Starting as an apprentice, he worked his way up through the ranks to first deputy chief over the years.

saturday

Dec. 6

What: When: Where:

Dec. 16

Panthers seniors own night

Annual Tree Lighting on the Green What: When: Where:

tuesday

Middlebury police and police explorers collect food and toys to help families during this tough economic time. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (If you can’t make that, drop items off at the police department.) Dinova’s Four Corners at 600 Middlebury Road in Middlebury

Menorah lighting for Hanukkah What: When: Where:

Page 9

Tree lighting, entertainment by Middlebury Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts and carol singing. Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and Santa at the Middlebury Congregational Church parsonage open house. 4 p.m. Town green on Whittemore Road The first light on the menorah on the town green will be lit and Hanukkah songs and “Rock of Ages” will be sung. Those in attendance will be invited to take responsibility for lighting the menorah on the following nights. Refreshments will follow in Westover’s Red Hall. 3:30 p.m. Middlebury town green on Whittemore Road.

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The Bee-Intelligencer

December 2014

Library Happenings (LDS) scanner. The LDS consists of an 11-inch by 17-inch flatbed with a document feeder. It is connected to an all-in-one, userfriendly touch screen. Books and documents (color, black and white, grayscale) can be scanned. Scans can be sent to email, USB, Google Drive and Smartphone. The LDS document station is in the Reference Department adjacent to the public fax machine. It is free-ofcharge.

Middlebury Middle School Masterminds Middle School Masterminds for youth in grades five to eight will meet Monday, Dec. 1, at 3:30 p.m. for a holiday 3-D ornament party. They will make ornaments on the 3-D printer and decorate them and will enjoy some holiday treats. Please call 203-758-2634 or stop by to sign up.

Betsy Rogers-Knox exhibit

Brown Bag Book Discussion Group

An exhibit of Betsy RogersKnox’s watercolors will be on exhibit at the library from Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014 until Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2015. Rogers-Knox earned a certificate in botanical illustration from The New York Botanical Garden and is enchanted by the full life cycle of the plants she portrays in watercolor. She usually observes her plant subjects for a full year before beginning her compositions. For more information, call 203-262-0626 or visit www. southburylibrary.org. The library is at 100 Poverty Road in Southbury.

The Brown Bag Book Discussion Group will meet Wednesday, Dec. 3, at 1 p.m. to discuss “Still Life” by Louise Penny. New members are welcome.

Wreath-making Tuesday, Dec. 9, at 6 p.m., make your own wreath at our Flanders Wreath Workshop. Celebrate the season this year by keeping it green, handmade and local! Please call 203-758-2634 or stop by to register. Cost is $20 per wreath made. The Middlebury Public Library is at 30 Crest Road. The telephone number is 203-758-2634, and the website is middlebury-publiclibrary.org.

Naugatuck Publish your work Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 6:30 p.m. Naugatuck’s own Pat Scalisi returns for another engaging talk on the state of the publishing industry. Which type of publishing format is right for your work – traditional, small press/independent or self-published? If you’re considering becoming an author or are actively writing, don’t miss this valuable event. FREE and open to all, but please register to ensure seating. Call 203-729-4591 for more information.

Woodbury This painting of a fox wearing a scarf is part of Kate Gorham’s “Animals Wearing Scarves” exhibit at the Woodbury Library during the month of December. !Submitted photo) straight talk you can begin using right now to make higher education more affordable. FREE and open to all, but please register to ensure seating. Call 203-7294591for more information.

Online book fair Did you miss the store fundraiser? You can shop online at Barnes and Noble until Friday, Dec, 5, and support the library by entering Bookfair ID 11450087.

How to pay for college

Elizabeth Richard fundraiser

Wednesday, Dec. 3, at 6:30 p.m., Vincent Winans from “The College Guys” will shed some light on the challenges of meeting one of the biggest expenses you may encounter in life. How do colleges’ financial aid systems work? What sources are available to you for loans and other funding sources? Get strategies and

Shop at Elizabeth Richard Sunday, Dec. 7, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. to help raise funds for the library. If you can’t make it that day, come to the store five days before or after the event and inform staff that you would like your purchase to go towards the Howard Whittemore Memorial Library.

The Howard Whittemore Memorial Library is at 243 Church St. in Naugatuck. For information, call 203-729-4591 or visit whittemorelibrary.org.

www.bee-news.com to keep up with the latest news

Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2 p.m. David J. DeWitt, author of “Handwriting Analysis: Discover Your Own Vocational/Career Potential” will show how to explore New document scanner career options through grapholThe library now has a self-ser- ogy and personality awareness. vice Library Document Station How an individual dots his or her

Southbury

Upcycling clothes Teens and adults are invited to join Kate Gorham of the Golden Button Arts & Crafts Studio to create a new upcycled t-shirt or bag Tuesday, Dec. 9, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Learn basic hand sewing techniques, embroidery stitches, and how to apply vintage trim or appliques. Please bring some old t-shirts, pillowcases, tote bags or other items you’d like to upcycle into something new. Space is limited, so call the library to register at 203-263-3502.

Art Exhibit Works by teaching artist Kate Gorham are on exhibit at the library in December. “Animals in Scarves” is a series of brightly colored acrylic paintings of animals wearing scarves. Gorham is a painter, crafter and owner of The Golden Button Arts & Craft Studio in Woodbury. An artist’s reception will be held Sunday, Dec. 14, from 2 to 4 p.m. For more information, call 203-263-3502 or visit www. woodburylibraryct.org. The library is at 269 Main St. S. in Woodbury. To see library events for the remainder of the month, please look online at www.bee-news. com

Book Review

“Catification” By Jackson Galaxy and Kate Benjamin

(Penguin Group, $21.95) Reviewed by Ealish Waddell Viewers of Animal Planet’s “My Cat From Hell” know Jackson Galaxy as the guy with the guitar case full of cat toys and a knack for talking recalcitrant cats down from the ceiling. Who knew he also could be a design muse? Worried by the “aesthetic panic” that some of his clients seem to display at the idea of

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Handwriting book signing

I’s and crosses his or her T’s is indeed telling. In fact, handwriting can reveal much about how people think, feel and behave – and as the book proves, it also can be a useful tool. The newly released self-help book is published by Outskirts Press.

incorporating cat toys and furniture into their interior design, Galaxy produced this book to demonstrate how stylish it actually can be. Galaxy and co-author Kate Benjamin start out by exploring the unique ways cats see the world and by analyzing the ancient “Raw Cat” urges that lie just under the surface of today’s do-

mesticated indoor moggy. They encourage owners to observe their cats’ specific inclinations in order to design a personalized environment where they can feel comfortable and confident and to study both the horizontal and the vertical traffic patterns of their homes, especially areas where multiple pets and humans are pushed together and conflicts can quickly arise. Once these parameters have been established, the real fun of “Catification” begins. The rest of the pages are filled with photos of real homes that have been modified in attractive, diverse and often ingenious ways to ap-

peal to their resident felines. These range from a simple row of well-placed shelves to roomsize kitty amusement parks, from easy DIY projects using basic and inexpensive materials to behindthe-scenes looks at the custom-built creations seen on the TV show. But the common thread here is that all these cat toys look cool. With a wide variety of ideas and inspiration to suit all homes, styles and budgets, the goal is to make it easy, fun and even chic to show the world that it’s our cat’s home as well as our own. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.

Library Lines

s you read this, your mind is probably on almost anything but relaxing with a good book – or reading suggestions for good books! But we really should take time out at this busy time of year to just kick back and do absolutely nothing but read. If you let it, the act of read-

Make time for reading good books ing can be revitalizing and exciting, and it takes you out of the everyday stress of living for just a little while. Let a book transport you away from shopping and wrapping and baking and just plain everyday running to that very special world created by every author just for you. And so many of your favorite authors love to sell their books at this time of year! How lucky are you? Yes, I know it doesn’t seem possible, but James Patterson has written a continuation of the Alex Cross books – I wonder how many books that makes that he has written just this year alone? Anyway, “Hope to Die: The Return of Alex Cross” (PAT) just popped into the library in time for some fortunate person to read. Sorry, we already have a list of patrons waiting for it, so it may be a while before anyone can pluck it off the shelf. But feel free to put your name on the list or place a hold in our catalog – you may get the book more quickly. This one seems to be more of a psychological thriller, pitting Cross against a madman who abducts Cross’s family. The purpose is to make Cross into a murderer – hmm. Always fastpaced with extremely short chapters, a Patterson book is sure to keep you interested. “The Girl Next Door” (REN) by Ruth Rendell involves a crime of passion coming to light after 60 years. The discovery of bones in a tin draws together old friends who once played at the site where the bones were discovered. We are given the identity of two of the victims, but the third is withheld until the book’s conclusion. Sixty years can’t change old feelings that surface, and those childhood relationships never really do change either. More an exploration of this lack of change than a murder-mystery, this novel is vintage Rendell, who has written captivating mysteries for over 50 years. One of my favorite authors (and a former librarian to boot) is James R. Benn. A local author

from Hadlyme, Benn writes of the fictional ongoing adventures of Billy Boyle during World War II. Boyle just happens to be the nephew of Dwight D. Eisenhower and is often asked by him to investigate certain sensitive situations. “The Rest is Silence” (BEN) involves a corpse washed up on the same shore where the rehearsal for the D-Day invasion of Normandy is to take place. Billy and his best friend and co-investigator, Kaz, are invited to stay with Kaz’s old friend David at Ashcroft, his family manor. Lots of family drama compounds the drama of the delicate investigation. This is very well researched World War II fiction with a strong insight into Eisenhower and the military at that time. The final book of fiction is also by a long-term author with a recurring main character: The book by Clive Cussler (and his son, Dirk Cussler) is entitled “Havana Storm” (CUS). Dirk Pitt is back, this time in the Caribbean Sea, and somehow becomes involved in the political situation in Cuba. Coincidentally, his children also are in Cuba chasing an Aztec stone – now all are tangled up in preventing a potential environmental disaster as well as an overthrow of the Cuban government – never a dull moment with these guys! Name-dropping, pictures of long-ago celebrities, tales of true and absurd stories from a former 007 – does it get any better? Roger Moore has penned a collection of remembrances from his 70-year career. “One Lucky Bastard: Tales from Tinseltown” (B MOORE, ROGER MOO) is chock full of pictures and amusing stories of his friendships with other celebs and their stories also. Very lightweight, but fun to skim through if only to recognize actors from bygone years and to read what Frank Sinatra was really like. Have you seen the movie “Interstellar” yet? “The Science of Interstellar” (530.1 THO) by Kip Thorne explains how many of

the other-worldly effects can happen in reality. Wormholes, black holes, the fifth dimension and creatures from “outer space” are given their origin and meaning in this highly readable book of science. The author was involved with the making of the movie – and making it as close to reality as is possible. He set guidelines before production began to ensure this: Nothing in the film could violate the laws of physics, and everything that happened had to have a basis in “real science.” I haven’t seen the film yet, but it has opened to tremendous reviews. Now I can’t wait to see it! It must be the month for science books. “This Changes Everything: Capitalism versus The Climate” (363.738 KLE) by Naomi Klein is a fascinating look at how the climate is changing and why we insist on still burning fossil fuels to fan that flame. Apparently, we are not looking at a gradual change, but one that could occur instantly under the right (or wrong) conditions. We are basically told by this author that we need to drastically change our society and economy, or the environment will become drastically changed. Thought provoking ... “On His Own Terms: A Life of Nelson Rockefeller” (B ROCKEFELLER, NELSON ROC) by Richard Norton Smith is the final choice. Few among us would fail to recognize the name or his many accomplishments – helping to develop the Rockefeller Center as well as the Museum of Modern Art, to name just two. But after having attained the governorship of New York four times, Rockefeller always craved the White House address. Patrons who enjoy the ins and outs of politics will surely enjoy this book. Adult Services Librarian Donna Hine writes Library Lines once a month. If you have a topic you’d like her to cover, contact her at the library at 203-758-2634.

December 2014

The Bee-Intelligencer

Falls Avenue Senior Center Events

Middlebury Senior Center News Donate used ink cartridges Don’t throw your used ink cartridges away. Please donate them to the Middlebury Senior Center, which will recycle them. Thank you.

MES performance Middlebury Elementary School (MES) is putting on a performance by Doran Hann, “Poetry in Motion,” Thursday, Dec. 4, at 10:15 a.m. The Middlebury Senior Center is offering a ride to seniors who would like to attend. Please call the center at 203-577-4166 to reserve a seat on the bus. Our bus has only 20 seats, so don’t wait to call. The bus will leave the center at 9:45 a.m.

Commission on Aging The Commission on Aging will meet Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 9:30 a.m. All interested persons are welcome to attend.

Christmas luncheon The senior center’s Christmas party will be Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 11:30 a.m. The cost is $10 per person. Entertainment will be by Willie Nininger. The menu will be a chef’s carving of roast beef, baked potato with sour cream, vegetable, tossed salad, multi-grain roll and cake. Please make your reservations no later than Friday, Dec. 12.

Holiday closings The senior center will be closed Thursday, Dec. 25, for the Christmas Day holiday and Thursday, Jan. 1, for the New Year’s Day holiday.

Energy Assistance Program The Middlebury Social Services office is taking applications for the 2014 Energy Assistance

program. Please bring with you all proofs of income, bank statements and copies of your energy bill, along with the number of people in your household and their income, social security numbers and dates of birth. For more information, call 203-5774166, ext 707.

For additional information, visit www.aarp.org/taxaide. TaxAide is a program of the AARP Foundation, offered in conjunction with the IRS.

Tax-Aide volunteer training

The Middlebury Senior Center minibus will take passengers to see the Christmas lights at Holiday Light Fantasia in Goodwin Park in Hartford Monday, Dec. 8. We will drive through an enchanting land of spectacular, sparkling light displays during this festive and magical holiday season, delighting viewers with more than 60 enchanting images on display. Drive through the whimsical, larger-than-life displays. There are one million glowing bulbs … shining bright to help thousands of area children. All proceeds go to Easter Seals. To reserve your seat, call 203577-4166. The cost will be $12 per person and includes admission and transportation. The rain/snow date will be Monday, Dec. 15.

Volunteer for the nation’s largest FREE tax preparation and assistance service offered by AARP. Volunteer opportunities range from Tax-Aide counselors to greeters as well as communications and technology coordinators. Tax-Aide volunteer counselors interact with clients by preparing tax returns on a one-to-one basis. Even if you don’t have accounting or tax preparation experience, becoming a counselor may be right for you. Tax-Aide provides training in tax law procedures, the preparation of tax forms and the use of tax preparation software. If you prefer to work with people, become a tax aide greeter. This is the first person clients meet when they enter a tax counseling facility. Greeters make sure the taxpayer has all the necessary paperwork before meeting with a volunteer counselor, and they manage the flow of clients being served. Have a knack for computers and technology? Technology coordinators manage computer equipment, work to ensure taxpayer data is secure, and provide technical assistance for volunteers at multiple sites on technology issues Good at managing people and programs? Leadership positions manage volunteers, synchronize plans with other volunteer leaders, and assure smooth program operation.

Celebrate with us… CHRISTMAS PAGEANT

Trips Holiday lights fantasia

Painted Pony restaurant As part of the Senior Dine lunch program, the minibus will go to the Painted Pony restaurant in Bethlehem Friday, Dec.19. This trip normally is on the fourth Friday each month, but is a week earlier this month due to the Thanksgiving holiday. You must have a Senior Dine card to participate. If you do not have a card, stop by the senior center office to get one. If you want to go to the Painted Pony, call 203-577-4166 to reserve a seat.

Ferrari’s Appliance We Sell & Service All Brands

Sunday, Dec. 14 at 10:00 am

160 Rubber Ave. Naugatuck, CT

Join us in the retelling of the story of Christmas Snow Date: Sunday, Dec. 21

Middlebury Congregational Church, The United Church of Christ, The Green, 1242 Whittemore Road, Middlebury CT

December 2014

(203) 723-7230

203-758-2671

Holiday Greetings We take this opportunity to wish you a happy holiday season and a new year of health, happiness, and prosperity.

bringing a favorite garment and Reflexology sharing memories associated with Certified reflexologist Kim Stewthat article of clothing. Reservations art will offer 20-minute reflexology are needed by Thursday, Dec. 4. sessions for your hands or feet Thursday, Dec. 18, from 8:30 to Superintendent of 10:15 a.m. The cost is $15. Reserschools to speak vations are needed by Wednesday, Watertown’s Superintendent of Dec. 17. Schools Dr. Bridget Carnemolla Quilt talk will be at the center Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 10 a.m. to introduce Friday, Dec. 19, at 2 p.m., Susan herself and answer questions Jerome will present “Let’s Talk about the Watertown Public Quilts,” an exploration of the way Schools. Reservations are needed quilts have become a part of Amerby Tuesday, Dec. 9. ican culture. She will discuss definitions and ideas surrounding the Crime victim resources word “quilt.” Learn about textile Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 2 p.m., history and how to properly store a representative from the office of textile heirlooms for future generthe State Victim Advocate will tell ations and discover how technoresidents about the resources logical changes in producing fabavailable to crime victims through- ric influenced the production of out the state and how to avoid quilts and the use of time during scams and frauds. Reservations the 19th century. Audience members are invited to bring one quilt are needed by Tuesday, Dec. 9. or quilted object with them. ResBoogie Boys to perform ervations are needed by Thursday, The Boogie Boys will perform Dec. 18. for two hours at the center’s Christmas Party Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 2 New Year’s celebration Bring in the New Year a few p.m. Admission is a dessert to share. Reservations are needed by hours ahead of time Wednesday, Dec. 31, at 2 p.m. Bob Lupi will Monday, Dec. 15. provide the entertainment. AdmisSocial services sion is a dish of appetizers to share. Reservations are needed by Tuesinformation Residents 55 years of age and day, Dec. 30.

Falls Avenue Senior Center events for area adults 55 and older follow. Most require reservations, which can be made by calling 860-945-5250. Please speak with a staff member when calling as the senior center does not accept voice-mail reservations. The center is at 311 Falls Ave. in Oakville, Conn.

Book club The center’s book club will review “The Christmas Box” by Richard Paul Evans Monday, Dec. 1, at 10 a.m. Next month’s novel is “Astor Place Vintage” by Stephanie Lehmann. That discussion will take place Jan. 5. Check the Watertown Library for the book. New members are welcome. Reservations are not needed.

Singer to perform Oakville singer John Elliott will bring his energetic performance to the center Wednesday, Dec. 3, at 2 p.m. Reservations are needed by Tuesday, Dec. 2.

From Bonnets to Bellbottoms The Connecticut Historical Society will present this program Friday, Dec. 5, at 2 p.m. The program explores how clothing communicates who we are, what we do and the society in which we live. Participants will look at everything from military inspiration during the Civil War to the influence of political liberalism in the 1960s. Recall the clothing of your ancestors, your parents and your own fashion choices through more than 100 years of fashion. The audience may contribute to the discussion by

older in need of social services assistance may meet with Jim Dunn of the Western Connecticut Area Agency on Aging Wednesday, Dec. 17, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. He is available to provide one-on-one assistance with social services questions and needs. Reservations are not needed.

Bible study New Hope Anglican Church offers a nondenominational Bible study at the center each Friday at 10 a.m. Join other seniors for the study and discussion. No reservations are required.

‘White-Coat Syndrome’ or High Blood Pressure?

DEAR DR. ROACH: My 21-yearold son is a college athlete, a sprinter, but he has had recurrent high systolic blood pressure readings since he was a senior in high school. He’s generally easygoing and not stressed. Doctors always attribute the elevated results to “white-coat syndrome” since he is otherwise in excellent health and doesn’t drink, smoke or use drugs. The last reading was 142/78 when he checked it at a drugstore monitor. He’s never had any reason to be nervous in a doctor’s office, and the initial high reading was with the same pediatrician he’d been seeing all his life. Once, a nurse had him rest quietly for a few minutes and rechecked the reading; it was lower, but still high. He just finished four months of rigorous basic training with the Army with no problems (his high reading on his physical was put down to nervousness), and he may now be anxious no matter where or when the reading is taken, but I’m worried that something else may be going on. Is there something we should have checked? – K.C. ANSWER: The real question is whether your son has “white coat” hypertension or just hypertension. The best way of answering this is with a 24-hour bloodpressure (BP) monitor, which checks the blood pressure every 15-30 minutes while awake and less frequently at night. If those

readings are mostly in the normal range, we could conclude that he has reactive, or whitecoat, hypertension. However, it is possible he has hypertension. Healthy young people sometimes get hypertension, and he may be able to get his blood pressure down without medication through salt reduction and relaxation techniques. But if he needs them, there are medications that will not affect his athletic abilities. I sometimes order an echocardiogram to look for changes in the heart that go along with high blood pressure. However, the elevated blood pressure readings are only of a few years’ duration, so he might not have these yet. I think the 24-hour BP monitor is the way to go. High blood pressure is one of the most common ailments for the general population. The booklet on it describes what it does and how it’s treated. Readers can order a copy by writing:

Dr. Roach – No. 104W, Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.75 U.S./$6 Canada with the recipient’s printed name and address. Please allow four weeks for delivery. DEAR DR. ROACH: Is there much difference between D.O. degrees and doctor of medicine degrees? I just noticed that my PCP has a “D.O.” after his name and nothing else. – B.B. ANSWER: A D.O. is a doctor of osteopathy, someone who went to an osteopathic medical school. D.O. physicians are licensed to practice medicine and surgery in all U.S. states; in Canada, licensing varies by province. The training of an osteopathic physician is similar to that of a doctor with the M.D. degree, but osteopathic physicians obtain training in osteopathic manipulative medicine. It has been my experience that D.O. physicians are very similar to M.D. physicians in most respects. Dr. Roach regrets he is unable to answer individual letters, but he will incorporate them in his column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell. edu. To view and order health pamphlets, visit www.rbmamall. com, or write to P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. (c) 2014 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

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December 2014

Community Calendar Sunday, Nov. 30, to Saturday, Dec. 6 Monday, Dec. 1 Board of Selectmen 6 p.m...................................................Town Hall Conference Room

Tuesday, Dec. 2 Water Commission 7 p.m.............................................................. Shepardson, Room 26

Wednesday, Dec. 3 Land Preservation & Open Space 6 p.m................................................................ Shepardson, Room 7 Zoning Board of Appeals 7:30 p.m..............................................Town Hall Conference Room

Thursday, Dec. 4 Planning and Zoning 7:30 p.m......................................................Shepardson Auditorium

Sunday, Dec. 7, to Saturday, Dec. 13 Monday, Dec. 8 Police Commission 6 p.m...................................................Town Hall Conference Room

Tuesday, Dec. 9 Library Board of Directors 3 p.m.......................................................Middlebury Public Library Democratic Town Committee 7:30 p.m......................................................... Shepardson, Room 27 Republican Town Committee 7:30 p.m......................................................... Shepardson, Room 26

Wednesday, Dec. 10 Board of Finance 7 p.m.............................................................. Shepardson, Room 26

Thursday, Dec. 11 Retirement Plan Committee 1 p.m...................................................Town Hall Conference Room Parks and Recreation 7 p.m................................................................ Shepardson, Room 1

Sunday, Dec. 14, to Saturday, Dec. 20 Monday, Dec. 15 Board of Selectmen 6 p.m...................................................Town Hall Conference Room Public Works Commission 7 p.m................................................................ Shepardson, Room 4

Tuesday, Dec. 16 Commission on Aging 9:30 a.m......................................................... Shepardson, Room 26 Water Pollution Control Authority 7:30 p.m......................................................... Shepardson, Room 26

Sunday, Dec. 21 to Saturday, Dec. 27 Monday, Dec. 22 Ethics Commission 5:30 p.m. ............................................Town Hall Conference Room

Tuesday, Dec. 23 Economic and Industrial Development Commission 6:30 p.m..............................................Town Hall Conference Room

Thursday, Dec. 25

Remember Pearl Harbor Day; honor veterans The Iwo Jima Memorial Historical Foundation will host two special events in December at the National Iwo Jima Memorial. On Pearl Harbor Day, Sunday, Dec. 7, at 12:30 p.m., they will hold a national Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ceremony. On Saturday, Dec. 13, at 12 p.m., they will participate in the Wreaths Across America wreath-laying ceremony. National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day recalls Dec. 7, 1941, the day America’s Naval Base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, was attacked. The attack marked America’s entrance into World War II. More than 3,500 Americans were killed or injured. The Foundation will observe the 73nd anniversary of the attack and pay tribute to the American servicemen and women whose lives were lost and those who were injured. Foundation volunteers will be on hand at the memorial from 11:30 a.m. and after the ceremony to speak with visitors. Historical displays about the Pearl Harbor attack will be on hand for viewing. A ceremony will take place at 12:30 p.m. All are invited to gather together to honor veterans during the holiday season as part of the annual Wreaths Across America Day Dec. 13. Specially designated wreaths for the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard,

P&Z -

Continued from page 1 Riefenhauser of Smith & Company said only 30 of 34 homes in Phase 1 had been built. Commissioners also agreed to waive the requirement for a traffic report and use a report from 2007. A site plan modification for Quassy Amusement Park to add a snack bar, candy store, two water slides and a new maintenance building was unanimously approved. Attorney Michael McVerry said the new steel maintenance building would sit on the east property line shared with the Middlebury Recreation Area and be similar to but smaller than the maintenance building already there. A new snack bar with an observation deck above it would offer wine and beer and serve people enjoying the lake, a candy shop would replace the deteriorating redemption center on the west side of the park, and new

Merchant Marine, and POW/MIA will be placed at the memorial during a ceremony that will be coordinated simultaneously at over 750 participating locations all across the country. The Wreaths Across AmericaTM story began over 20 years ago when the Worcester Wreath Company from Harrington, Maine initiated a tradition of donating and placing wreaths on the headstones of our nation’s fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery. The Wreaths Across America’s mission is to remember the fallen; honor those who serve, including their families who sacrifice; and teach our children the cost of the free-

water slides would consist of a kiddie slide and a larger slide. McVerry brought letters of approval from the police and fire departments and the Conservation and Economic Development Commissions. He said the snack bar and candy shop would follow the old-fashioned train station architecture used in the recently built ticket booth. That natural wood design theme produced by Andrew Peklo III of Woodbury also was used in bathroom renovations and will be used for the upcoming train terminal. A decision on changes to Section 22.7 of the zoning regulations for calculating the resale of affordable housing in the Brookside development was continued until Dec. 4 to allow surrounding towns to comment. D’Angelo said the regulations were originally worded for the Steeplechase subdivision and later applied to Brookside. McVerry told commissioners it took about eight months to sell such

doms we enjoy each day. Wreaths Across America is a national nonprofit organization. If you’d like more information about this organization, visit www.WreathsAcrossAmerica.org Information about either of these ceremonies can be obtained by calling Gary Roy at 860-291-9666. The National Iwo Jima Memorial Monument is on the northeast side of the Central Connecticut State University campus at the intersection of Ella Grasso Boulevard and Route 9 (exit 29) at the Newington-New Britain town line.

a house last year because the formula in the Brookside property declaration was not part of the regulations. D’Angelo said her proposed change would clean up the wording and tie it to Connecticut State Statutes. The change also would broaden the definition of moderate income from the Waterbury Metropolitan Statistical Area to the more general Litchfield and New Haven County statistics. A change in use of the former Golden Age of Trucking Museum at 1067 Southford Road to warehouse and retail space was unanimously approved. Dr. Dean Yimoyines, d/b/a JSD Partners LLC, told commissioners the majority of the building would be used as warehouse space to process shipping and receiving, with some sales made out of the front of the building. Retail will be 10,000 square feet and the warehouse 22,000. Yimoyines was told to apply for a special exception for a 4-by-8-foot sign he said was

needed to guide people to the building. In procedural matters, members voted to keep the regular meeting date the first Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. In other matters, attorney Stephen Savarese told commissioners Oxford P&Z had written a letter in support of the CPV Towantic Energy Center on the border of Oxford and Middlebury. Savarese said First Selectman Edward B. St. John had already written a letter to the Connecticut Siting Council in opposition to the project. He said Middlebury had already suffered enough from the airport expansion, noting the Triangle Boulevard homes buyout, and asked for a P&Z letter in opposition. Chairman Smith agreed to submit a letter on behalf of the Middlebury P&Z for the record. The next regular P&Z meeting will be Thursday, Dec. 4, at 7:30 p.m. at Shepardson Community Center.

Southbury woman breathes new life into 200-year-old company By MARY CONSEUR

Southbury resident Martha Christmas Day Holiday - Town offices, library and transfer staHinrichsen, an owner/sharetion are closed holder in the world-renowned music publishing company C.F. Sunday, Dec. 28 to Saturday, Jan. 3 Peters, has good reason to be proud. In October, she returned Tuesday, Dec. 30 to her family roots in Leipzig, Conservation Commission does not meet in December Germany, to give a speech at the re-opening ceremony of her famThursday, Jan. 1 ily’s company, which had been New Year’s Day Holiday - Town offices, library and transfer confiscated by the Nazis 76 years ago. station are closed Martha’s story is one of triCalendar dates/times are subject to change. umph and tragedy, of affluence If your organization would like your event included in the community calendar, please email the information to beeintelligencer@gmail.com. and financial ruin, of perseverance and despair. The C.F. Peters Corp. and the building at Talstrasse 10 in Leipzig in which it is housed, date from the 19th century. The Hinrichsen family Dec. 1 to 31, 2014 acquired the business in 1863 Friday, Dec. 5, Full Day Teacher In- Service - No School and ran it successfully until Nov. 9, 1938, “Krystallnacht,” when Winter Recess: Wednesday, Dec. 24, through Friday, Jan. 2, 2015 the Nazis confiscated it and destroyed much of the sheet music Middlebury Elementary School Wednesday, Dec. 3............... Parent Technology Night.................... 6:30 p.m. and many musical instruments. Tuesday, Dec. 9.................... Band/Orchestra Demo.......................... 7 p.m. The Nazis then executed a forced Thursday, Dec. 11................. Fancy Day! Wednesday, Dec. 17............. Snow Date Band/Orchestra................... 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19..................... Spirit/Wear Blue/Do Something Friday, Dec. 19..................... Movie - “Frozen”........................6:30 to 8 p.m.

Region 15 School Calendar

Long Meadow Elementary School

sale of some 40 works in the Hinrichsens’ art collection; only eight of them have been restituted since then. The Hinrichsens were wellknown in Leipzig, not only for their business acumen, but also for their philanthropy. They funded the first college for women in Leipzig. They donated to their city a collection of some 2,600 musical instruments. They opened the first music library that contained original manuscripts from famous composers. And they financially supported many composers, including the Norwegian Edvard Grieg, who kept a room in their apartment, located on the second and third floors of Talstrasse 10. In 1936, Martha’s father, Henri Hinrichsen, immigrated to the U.S. to escape the Nazis. In New York, he opened the American branch of C.F. Peters. Henri’s brother Max immigrated to London, where he opened another branch of C.F. Peters. The young-

est child in the family, Robert, was sent to England in the hope he would find safe haven there. The members of the Hinrichsen family who chose to remain in mainland Europe did not fare as well. Martha’s grandfather and her uncle Paul were gassed at Auschwitz. Her uncle Hans died of typhoid fever in a concentration camp in France. Her aunt Charlotte was sent to a concentration camp, but was mercifully rescued by a Christian organization. Martha’s grandmother died of diabetes because the Nazis refused her medical treatment. Martha’s aunt Ilse, though interned in five different concentration camps, somehow managed to survive and rebuild her life. “I had no idea what happened to my father’s relatives until I was 15 years old,” Martha said. “My friends at school finally told me the truth. I didn’t even know my father was Jewish. I had been brought up in the Presbyterian Church because my mother was

Presbyterian. I just knew that I was not allowed to talk about World War II or ask any questions about my father’s relatives.” Following the Nazi takeover in 1938, C.F. Peters was again confiscated after World War II, this time by the Communists (Leipzig is located in what became East Germany.) The Hinrichsens’ building at Talstrasse 10 in Leipzig fell into disrepair and suffered severe water damage. After the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, a physician purchased the building and spent the next 10 years meticulously restoring it to its original grandeur. Today C.F. Peters Corp. in Germany is once again owned by the Hinrichsen family and housed in its original building at Talstrasse 10 in Leipzig. “My journey has often been long, and sometimes tedious, emotionally painful, and expensive,” said Martha, “but I am proud and privileged to be a part of this legacy.”

Social Security COLA Increase: 1.7 Percent

You’ve likely heard that our Wednesday, Dec. 3............... Band/Orchestra Demo.......................... 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10............. Snow Date Band/Orchestra................... 7 p.m. Social Security increase for 2015 Thursday, Dec. 18................. Preschool Screening............................By Appt. will be 1.7 percent. Last year, the Cost of Living Adjustment Gainfield Elementary School (COLA) was 1.5 percent, so it’s a Monday, Dec. 1.................... Band/Orchestra Demo.......................... 7 p.m. small improvement. But here is Monday, Dec. 8.................... Snow Date Band/Orchestra................... 7 p.m. how that translates into real Thursday, Dec. 11................. Holiday Fair money: The average monthly Thursday, Dec. 18................. McDonald’s Fundraiser increase will be $20. Pomperaug Elementary School Here are a few items from the Friday, Dec. 5....................... PTO Holiday Fair.................................... 6 p.m. Bureau of Labor Statistics chart: Tuesday, Dec. 9.................... PTO.................................................. 9:30 a.m. During 2014, food went up 3 Thursday, Dec. 11................. Storytime with Mr. S............................... 7 p.m. percent. (Of that, beef has gone Thursday, Dec. 11................. Band/Orchestra Demo.......................... 7 p.m. up 17.8 percent since January. Friday, Dec. 12..................... Snow Date Band/Orchestra................... 7 p.m. Dairy has gone up 10 times in the past 11 months. All meats, poulMemorial Middle School Friday, Dec. 19..................... Grade 6 Social.....................2:45 to 4:15 p.m. try, fish and eggs have increased 9.4 percent this year.) Utilities Rochambeau Middle School went up 3.5 percent. Medical Monday, Dec. 1.................... PTO....................................................... 7 p.m. care commodities went up 2.9 Tuesday, Dec. 9.................... Grades 7 and 8 Winter Concert........ 6:15 p.m. percent. Medical care services Wednesday, Dec. 10............. Snow Date for Winter Concert........... 6:15 p.m. went up 1.7 percent. Pomperaug High School The net loss of those dollars is Monday, Dec. 1.................... Financial Aid Night......................6:30 - 8 p.m. in our current buying power. The Friday, Dec. 12..................... Symphonic Band/Orchestra.................. 7 p.m. loss will be made worse down Monday, Dec. 15.................. Symph. Band/Orchestra Snow Date....... 7 p.m. the road because of compoundThursday, Dec. 18................. Student of the Month Breakfast........ 6:45 a.m. ing. Dollars we don’t get now Friday, Dec. 19..................... Jazz Band/Chamber Singers.................. 7 p.m. can’t be compounded in years Monday, Dec. 22.................. Jazz Band/Chamber Singers.................. 7 p.m. to come. Seniors League has a

starts taking $1 out of your benefits for every $2 you earn. If you will turn 66 next year, that earning limit will be $41,880 before it takes $1 for every $3 you earn. Matilda Charles regrets she calculator to determine the long-lasting impact of this low COLA. Go to seniorsleague.org and enter your figures. It will show you the dollar loss over time. COLA became mandatory in 1975. The yearly increase or decrease is based on the Consumer Price Index, which includes food, shelter, doctors and dentists, drugs, and other day-to-day goods and services, with figures collected every month in 87 urban areas. Since 2010, the increase has averaged 1.4 percent per year. In two recent years it didn’t increase at all. If this low COLA for 2015 keeps you from being able to quit work, remember you can earn $15,720 before Social Security

Middlebury Road (Opposite the Shell Station) Open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily Anthony Calabrese 203-758-2765

Christmas Trees - Cut or Potted Wreaths • Roping Poinsettias Cemetery Boxes

Kissing Balls • Pots of holiday decorated greenery Gift Certificates Available

Bird Seed Headquarters

Black Oil, Premium Mix, Sunflower Hearts, Niger Seed (thistle for finches)

Deer Corn • Livestock & Poultry Feed Local eggs. Fresh daily. $3.50 per dozen

The Bee-Intelligencer

December 2014

Bee Intelligencer

in•tel•li•gencer: n. One who conveys news or information The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 4th ed.

Issued by: The Middlebury Bee-Intelligencer Society LLC Bee-Intelligencer Staff: Editor-In-Chief/Publisher: Marjorie Needham Contributing Writers: Mary Conseur, Terrence S. McAuliffe Art & Production: Mario J. Recupido - Submit press releases in person, by mail or email The Bee-Intelligencer welcomes news, press releases and advertising from all surrounding communities Editorial Office: 2030 Straits Turnpike, Suite 1, Middlebury, CT 06762 Direct mail to P.O. Box 10. Telephone: 203-577-6800 • Email: beeintelligencer@gmail.com Advertising Information: Telephone: 203-577-6800 • Email: mbiadvertising@gmail.com Deadlines: Display Advertising: 5 p.m. Friday preceding publication Classified Advertising: 5 p.m. Monday preceding publication Editorial/Press Releases: Noon Monday preceding publication Copyright © 2014 by The Middlebury Bee-Intelligencer Society, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

In Brief Gift-wrapping service Do you have arthritis, dexterity issues or just don’t like wrapping gifts? Stop by the Southbury Public Library with your gifts Thursday, Dec. 4, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and the Junior Friends of the Southbury Public Library will wrap them for you. This is a free service, but donations are graciously accepted. The Junior Friends also will be selling baked goods, so stop by for a sweet holiday treat.

Woodbury tree lighting The Town of Woodbury’s annual tree lighting at the North Green will take place Saturday, Dec. 6, at 4 p.m. All are invited to greet Santa as he arrives to turn on the tree lights. Region 14 school bands and chorus will perform holiday songs and will lead everyone in a sing-a-long. For information, go to www. woodburyparksandrec.org.

Lexi White

Middlebury actress in Lifetime movie Lexi White of Middlebury was cast as Geraldine in the movie “Wishin’ and Hopin’” based on the New York Times best-selling novel by Wally Lamb. The film is a coming-of-age story set at Christmas time 1964 in Connecticut. It stars Molly Ringwald, Chevy Chase and Meatloaf. “Wishin’ and Hopin’” will air Saturday, Dec. 6, at 8 p.m. on the Lifetime channel.

Gingerbread Village and Holiday Bazaar St. George’s Episcopal Church on Tucker Hill Road in Middlebury is wrapping up the final touches on over 60 houses, snowmen, trees, fences, reindeer and more for the 47th annual Gingerbread Village and holiday bazaar. The event opens to the public

Patty Gibbs, a volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association, facilitates the group. For more information, call Debby Horowitz, Brownstein Jewish Family Service director, at 203-267-3177, ext. 310.

Saturday, Dec. 7, at 10 a.m. and runs throughout the week, closing on Saturday, Dec. 13. The village offers the public a chance to view all the houses, as well as decorate their own gingerbread cookie, visit the craft room for a holiday gift, enjoy lunch on either Saturday between 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., and just get in the spirit of Christmas. For more information, visit www.gingerbreadvillagect.com.

Coping with illness Torah discussion

Brass City Ballet The Brass City Ballet’s annual performance of “The Nutcracker” will be Saturday, Dec. 13, at 5:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 14, at 2 p.m. at the Rotella Arts Magnet School at 440 Pierpont Road in Waterbury (off I-84 at Exit 25). Tickets are $20 for adults; $15 for seniors and children under 12. Buy tickets at Tututix.com or 1-855-222-2TIX.

Enjoy seeing more than 60 gingerbread houses like this one at the St. George’s Episcopal Church Gingerbread Village. (Submitted photo)

Leever Regional Cancer Center at 1075 Chase Parkway in Waterbury. It also will meet Tuesday, Dec. 2, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Bristol Public Library at 5 High St. Small works art show in Bristol. For more information, call Deb and sale at 860-945-0184, email QuiltsThatFor the unusual, but special, Care.Deb@gmail.com or visit holiday gift, come to the SCAN www.quiltsthatcare.org. Small Works Art Show and Sale, one day only, Saturday, Dec. 13, Love and Knishes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the lower The Wednesday, Dec. 3, Love level of the Meeting House in and Knishes will feature Jeff WieNewtown. The artists of SCAN will feature small, original art- selberg performing an impressive work, all under 11 inches by 14 repertoire on piano and vocals that inches, for purchase at very rea- includes the Great American Songsonable prices. Additional port- book, Frank Sinatra, Buddy Holly, folio selections will be available. the Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, Do your holiday shopping for that Elton John, Billy Joel, Elvis Presley, one-of-a-kind creative gift that Fats Waller, Bobby Darin, James will be a delight to someone for a long time. The Meeting House Taylor, the Everly Brothers and Fats is across from the flagpole at 31 Domino. The Wednesday, Dec. 10 proMain St. (Rte. 25) in Newtown. gram will feature Mark Levy of San Francisco in a Chanukah concert. Annual cookie walk The Middlebury Volunteer Fire Catered by Bonnie Douglas of CreDepartment Ladies Auxiliary will ative Events by Bonnie, the threeagain sell homemade holiday course kosher lunch at 12 p.m. in cookies by the pound at their an- the social hall at the Jewish Fednual cookie walk Saturday, Dec. eration of Western Connecticut at 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the 444 Main St. North in Southbury Middlebury Fire House at 65 is followed by a concert at 1 p.m. Tucker Hill Road. Cookies will be Levy’s show will be a mixture $6.50 a pound. You are invited to of Chanukah songs from the Old come in and pack your own box with tons of different varieties. World and New, spiced with huThere will be thousands of cook- mor and festive spirit, sung in ies to choose from. Let the ladies Yiddish, Ladino, Hebrew, English, do your baking for the holidays and Russian. Whether an old Yidwhile you just get to share the dish lullaby or his own new tune, sweetness. For more information Levy delivers songs with such feelemail ladiesauxiliary@middle- ing that audiences are mesmerburyfire.org. ized. Lunch reservations should be Quilts that Care made by noon Monday for that Quilts that Care, an organiza- week’s program. All programs are tion that makes quilts for people open to the public, and there is a who undergo cancer treatment, suggested lunch donation of $7.50 will meet Mondays, Dec. 1 and 15, for adults age 60 and older. To from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Harold RSVP, call 203-267-3177. www.nfda.org

I am an individual, who is part of a family and that is part of our community. I want my funeral to reflect that.

We know the things that are important to the families we serve. After all, they’re the same values that guide our business... family, community, and personal service. To learn more about how we can help you and your family create a meaningful funeral, please contact us.

Robotics fundraiser

La-Bree-ut is a Hebrew exclamation meaning “To your health!” It will be the focus of a Torah study exploring themes of wellness and healing with Rabbi Dana Z. Bogatz, chaplain for Brownstein Jewish Family Service. The next class, “From Darkness to Light” will meet Thursday, Dec. 11, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Jewish Federation of Western Connecticut at 444 Main St. N. in Southbury. Participants are asked to bring a Tanakh (complete Hebrew Bible) if they have one. Copies also will be available. The cost is $10 for the class. Participants of all ages and stages are welcome to come, but seating is limited and advance registration is required. To make a reservation, call 203267-3177.

The Panther Project, the FIRST Robotics Team at Pomperaug High School, will be holding a “Fun Day” fundraiser at Friendly’s at 519 Heritage Road in Southbury, Tuesday, Dec. 9. On that day, 20 percent of all proceeds will be donated to the Robotics Team. Until Dec. 9, team members are handing out vouchers to anyone who wants one. Use the vouchers at Friendly’s Dec. 9 so Five Wishes program they will get credit. To get a The public is invited to a Five voucher, see a Robotics Team member at Pomperaug High Wishes program Tuesday, Dec. 9, School. For more information, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. with Joyce Buselli, RN, of VITAS Healthcare. visit http://frc2064.com/. Five Wishes is the first living will that talks about your personal, Alzheimer’s, related emotional and spiritual needs as dementias support well as your medical wishes. It group lets you choose the person you The monthly support group for want to make health-care decifriends and family of people with sions for you if you are not able Alzheimer’s disease and related to make them for yourself. This dementias will meet Thursday, document gives you a way to conDec. 11, at 10:30 a.m. at the Jew- trol something very important – ish Federation of Western Con- how you are treated if you get necticut at 444 Main St. N. in seriously ill. Southbury. There is no charge for The free program is for anyone this open and ongoing group, age 18 or older. It will meet at the whose purpose is to provide emo- Jewish Federation of Western tional, educational and social Connecticut at 444 Main St. N. in support for caregivers through Southbury. Seating is limited and regularly scheduled meetings. reservations are requested by The group helps participants calling 203-267-3177. develop methods and skills to Death Café solve problems. It also encourage caregivers to maintain their own Rabbi Dana Z. Bogatz, the personal, physical and emotional chaplain for Brownstein Jewish health, as well as optimally care Family Service, will be the coorfor the person with dementia. dinator/facilitator for two meet-

ings of the Death Café, one on Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 1 p.m. and another on Tuesday, Dec. 9, at 6:30 p.m. at the Jewish Federation of Western Connecticut at 444 Main St. N. in Southbury. Death Café does not promote any religion, value system or product. This is not a bereavement group. The Death Café provides a safe, nurturing place and community in which to discuss people’s interest, questions and concerns surrounding death. Its goal is to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives. Light refreshments will be served. There is no charge for this program and it is open to all adults, but seating is very limited, and participants must preregister, even if they have come to a previous Death Café. Registration is first-come, first-served. To make a reservation, leave a message for Rabbi Bogatz at 203-2673177, ext. 334. Participation is limited to 10 people in order to keep the conversation open.

Lions’ luminaries The Middlebury Lions Club is selling holiday luminaries again this year as a fundraiser to support local scholarship and community assistance funds. Luminaries are customarily placed along driveways and walkways at dusk on Christmas Eve and can also be a fun addition to your New Year’s Eve celebration. The white glowing bags are simple to set up by placing approximately 1 inch of sand (available at the transfer station) in the bottom of the bag, centering the candle in the sand and lighting them at dusk. For $6, you receive 12 white bags and 12 10-hour candles. Luminaries went on sale Nov. 28 at Sullivan’s Jewelers, Larry’s Wine and Spirits, Vaszauskas Farm and at the Town Park and Rec department. The Lions also will be selling them Saturday, Dec. 13, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the transfer station and around town. Please support the Lions along and their local business partners.

Letters to the Editor Harassed women To the Editor: When I was the chief grievance officer for the faculty and staff of the 12 Connecticut state community colleges. I represented many women in harassment cases. In fact such cases were my specialty. When I saw an article in the newspaper concerning the March 18, 2014, meeting of the Finance Board in Middlebury I FOI’d a recording of said meeting. What I heard was Chairman Mike McCormack doing his “bully” routine relative to a female town employee. He yelled, rather than spoke, to the woman, speaking loudly over her statements while accusing her of offenses including not following directions or not providing proper information. He did these things not in a remedial manner, i.e. to guide her, but

rather in a loud punitive, “bullying” way. It was very reminiscent of how he treated the Middlebury police chief at a Finance Board hearing I once attended. Over a 28-year time frame, I represented more than 200 people in grievance matters and I don’t remember ever hearing a man speak to a female employee as did McCormack on that tape. He should take his own advice and follow through with something he starts and never finishes. For example, how many

times has he pulled out as a first selectman candidate after collecting the needed amount of signatures? In the meanwhile, McCormack should cease treating town employees as if they are serfs and he is a 19th-century Russian landowner. Mr. McCormack should heed the advice columnist Mike Lupica gave to Gov. Christie of New Jersey, “Pick on somebody your own size.” Pat de Angelis

Letters to the Editor Letters to the editor may be mailed to the Bee-Intelligencer, P.O. Box 10, Middlebury, CT 06762 or emailed to beeintelligencer@ gmail.com. Letters will be run as space permits. Please limit letters to 500 words, avoid personal attacks, and understand letters will be edited. For verification purposes, please include your name, street address and daytime telephone number.

The Bee-Intelligencer

December 2014

It Happened in Middlebury

Middlebury has Hindenburg connection

pelin flew the first historical flight. It was 803 feet long, carried a crew of 40 and 50 passengers and had a payload of 15 tons; it was powered by four huge 1,000-horsepower diesel engines and had a maximum airspeed of 84 miles per hour. Commanding the ground crew at Lakehurst that fateful day was none other than Lieut. Raymond Farrington Tyler who had flown on the Hindenburg just seven months earlier. A Middle-

bury native, he was born in 1894, the son of William Pierce Tyler (1862-1932) and his wife Ada Wyckoff (1859-1925). Raymond and his wife, Margaret, had two children, Owen and Louise, both born in New Jersey. They were teenagers when their father faced one of the most intense challenges of his life. Among the fatalities that day were 13 of the 36 passengers, 22 of the 61 crewmen, and one ground crewman. Lieut. Tyler gal-

vanized his crew of 200 into immediate action at the explosion, and they were responsible for saving many lives. Miraculously, two-thirds, 62, survived. Lieut. Tyler had a remarkable career as an expert on lighterthan-air craft. He had commanded blimps (non-rigid structures) and was on the crew of many more. He was a member of the crew of the USS Shenandoah, built in 1923 at Lakehurst and destroyed in a storm in Ohio in 1925.

He piloted a navy balloon to fourth place in an annual national balloon race and was on the crew of a dirigible (both lighter-thanair craft) that blew away from its mooring in Newfoundland during the night and was never found. He made a number of flights over Middlebury during his career so townspeople could look up and see his ship as he flew over. On one trip he dropped a note from his craft addressed to Raymond J. Fanning, managing editor of the

Waterbury American newspaper, expressing his disappointment at not being able to visit with him for a chat. In addition, Lieut. Tyler was an expert in helium. If the Hindenburg had filled with non-inflammable helium, the disaster could have been avoided, he said. While the disaster greatly curbed the enthusiasm for airships, this Middlebury hero remained a stalwart proponent for the use of dirigibles, even after the Hindenburg tragedy. Lieut. Tyler’s later career was described thus: “Lieutenant Commander Tyler was assigned command of Lighter-Than-Air Squadron Five on 16 December 1941. He was promoted to commander on 20 August 1942 and assumed command of Airship Group One in January 1943. He was promoted to captain on 20 June 1943 and was in command of Airship Wing One when World War II ended. Captain Tyler was placed on the retired list on 2 January 1947.” (Historical Manuscripts, Navy Department Library, Naval History and Heritage Command, Washington, D.C., Raymond C. Tyler Collection.) Ruth Benson chronicled much of Middlebury’s history through most of the early to mid-1900s. We are scanning her books to make them available online and could use one or two interested volunteers to complete the work. Please call if you can help. Bob Rafford is the Middlebury Historical Society president and Middlebury’s municipal historian. To join or contact the society, visit MiddleburyHistoricalSociety.org or call Bob at 203-206-4717. Your membership would be a valuable addition.

Jim was born in Stonington, May 30, 1936, the son of the late Vincent and Celine (Racenet) Ericson. A graduate of Oliver Wolcott Technical School, he served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict. Prior to his retirement, he was an electronics technician for the Sears Roebuck Co. He was a member of the American Legion Post 195 and a veteran member of the Watertown Fire Department. Besides his wife of 53 years, he leaves three sons: Edward Ericson of Wisconsin, Richard Ericson of Middlebury and Mark Ericson of Illinois; a daughter, Judy White, of Watertown; nine grandchildren: Kristina, Kimberly, Alicia, Marissa, J.J., Taylor, Michael, Shaye and Tyler; a great-granddaughter, Evelyn; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Sandra Keeler. The funeral services were Friday, Nov. 21, with burial with military honors following in Evergreen Cemetery in Watertown. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Watertown Fire Department, 935 Main St., Watertown, CT 06795. For additional information or to leave an online message of condolence, visit www. hickcoxfuneralhome.com.

educating students of all ages about the Hellenic language and culture. Besides his wife, Nora, of 55 years, Elias leaves his daughter, Myrsini Papoutsis of Middlebury; a sister, Victoria Mihalakelli of Greece; brother-in-laws, Michael Papadopoulos and his wife, Maritsa, and Dr. George Papadopoulos and his wife, Chrysoula, all of Greece; his sister-in-law, Avra Mihaelaras, and her husband, Peter, of Clearwater, Fla.; and many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and -nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Ignatios Papoutsis, and sister-inlaw, Milothea Papoutsis. The funeral was Thursday, Nov. 20, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church with burial following at New Pine Grove Cemetery. The family would like to thank all the doctors, nurses, aides and staff at Waterbury Hospital, St. Mary’s Hospital, Glendale Health Center and the Cheshire House for the excellent care provided to Elias. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 937 Chase Parkway, Waterbury, CT 06708 or National Brain Tumor Society, 55 Chapel St., Suite 200, Newtown, MA 02458. For more information or to send e-condolences, visit www.chaseparkwaymemorial. com.

son and her husband, Paul, of Woodbury; and Karen Titcomb and her husband, Brooks, of Woodbury. She also leaves a sister, Elsie Mellette; her brother, Howard (Skip) Northrop of Middlebury; and sister Nancy Northrop of Arizona. Ruth had 19 grandchildren: Robert Charbonneau and his wife, Patti; Mark Charbonneau and his wife, June; Brian Charbonneau; Michael Charbonneau and his wife, Katie; Kevin Dawes and his wife, Jennie; Tammy Rapp and her husband, Adam; Kristine Boisits and her husband, Michael; Becky Ziminsky and her husband, Eric; Carissa Charbonneau; Tiffany Hill and her husband, Matt; Troy Bertagnoli and his wife, Sarah; Lindsey Ericson and her husband, Kevin; Dawn Corbo and her husband,Colin; Ashley Carlson and her companion, Ryan; Eric Carlson and his companion, Kate; Bobby Freer and his wife, Robin; Billy Freer and his wife, Andria; Dawn Emmanuel and her husband, Michael; and Shawn Titcomb and his wife, Jennifer. She also had 23 great-grandchildren. A memorial service Nov. 8 was followed by burial at New North Cemetery in Woodbury. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 5055 E. Washington St., Suite 130, Phoenix, AZ 85034 or the Woodbury Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 581, Woodbury, CT 06798. The Woodbury Funeral Home of Munson-Lovetere handled arrangements. For online condolences, visit www.munsonloveterefuneral.com.

graphic arts, she worked at several printing companies doing computer typesetting and design layout. She also was the office manager for her husband’s business, H.W. Transmissions, for seven years before he retired. She was the secretary of Deerwood Hills Condominium Association of Waterbury from 2005 through 2010. She was an active member of The Church of The Infinite Spirit in Newington, serving on the board, as trustee, secretary and also past president for a total of 15 years. She also was a trustee on the board of the Connecticut State Spiritualist Association for 10 years. She enjoyed dancing, ceramics, drawing, art, decorating and working with computers. She and her husband also enjoyed traveling to various U.S. states and cruising to Bermuda, the Caribbean Islands, Alaska and Hawaii. Joan leaves her son, Brian Cassidy and his wife, Tracey, of Middlebury; her daughter, Sandra

(Cassidy) Calder and her husband, Jake, of Naugatuck; four grandchildren: Erin Calder, Nikolas and Tyler Cassidy, and Kevin Olson; three stepdaughters: Janice Hannis and her husband, Al, of N.C.; Nancy Flaherty and her husband, Kevin, of Torrington; and Laurie Allen and her husband, Chris, of Southbury; and their children and grandchildren. She was predeceased by a son, Scott Patrick Cassidy, and her brother, Walter J. Chesnavich, Ph.D. The family would like to thank the staff at Vitas Innovative Hospice Care for all their kindness and wonderful care. Also a special thanks to her friends Arlene, Angie, Mary and Janet for all your love and support. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. The funeral service was Nov. 15. Burial followed at New Pine Grove Cemetery in Waterbury. For more information or to send e-condolences, visit www. chaseparkwaymemorial.com.

By DR. ROBERT L. RAFFORD There is no shortage of heroes in Middlebury’s past and present. Of our women and men who have answered the call to duty and served and continue to serve our nation in its times of greatest need – our educators, researchers, pioneers, inventors, scientists and those who also stand and wait – we always will be proud. Raymond F. Tyler was one of our Middlebury heroes. While scanning in pages from Ruth Hickcox Benson’s scrapbooks, I was captivated by a story jumping off the pages from 77 years ago. In volume 3, page 45, there was an original photograph of the German airship LZ 129 Hindenburg as it flew over Middlebury on Oct. 9, 1936, on what would be its last round trip to Frankfort, Germany. A passenger on the ship was Middlebury native Raymond F. Tyler (18941965). The photograph probably was taken by Ernest Benson, Ruth’s husband and partner in her series of eight scrapbook albums owned by the Middlebury Historical Society. Sure enough, 16 pages later, newspaper accounts of the Hindenburg’s dramatic destruction were carefully pasted into Ruth’s book. A few articles and photographs told the airship’s tragic story of exploding and burning in just 32 seconds at its landing site at the Naval Air Station at Lakehurst, N.J., May 6, 1937. The attached Waterbury American news articles reported the Hindenburg was the largest and most luxurious of the 150 or so Zeppelins built in the 36 years since Count Ferdinand von Zep-

The German airship Hindenburg floats over Middlebury in 1936. The airship exploded and burned seven months later. (Middlebury Historical Society photo)

Obituaries Mary Antoinette Cappello

Loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother Mrs. Mary Antoinette (SantaLucia) Cappello, 94, of Southbury, formerly of Waterbury, died Tuesday, Oct. 28, at the Lutheran Home of Southbury. She was the widow of Anthony D. “Tony” Cappello. Mary was born in Waterbury June 13, 1920, the daughter of the late Julius and Anna (DiGiovanni) SantaLucia. She graduated from Waterbury Catholic High, and in 1941 she earned her degree as a registered nurse at St. Mary’s School of Nursing. She married Tony Cappello Sept. 13, 1946. They were blessed with four children and together they shared a devoted faith. Mary was a talented pianist, playing any song she heard by ear. She always had a warm smile and kind words for family and friends. Loving and tender, she was a mother to those who had none. She was kind and gracious no matter the circumstance. She is the core of her children’s goodness, who are thankful for the lessons she taught them, and is now resting in the palm of God’s hand. Mary is survived by her children, Charles Cappello of Hebron; Joseph Cappello and his wife, Nancy, of Woodbury; Maryann Lizzi and her husband, Damon, of Boynton Beach, Fla.; and Linda Cappello and her fiancé, James Arcangelo of Middlebury; six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and six nieces and nephews; and a brother, Joseph SantaLucia, and his wife, Carmela, of Boynton Beach, Fla. She also leaves her sister-in-law, Emma SantaLucia of Southbury, and her long-time friend and sister-in-law, Eleanor Cappello of Middlebury. She was predeceased by her brother, Eugene SantaLucia, and her daughter-in-law, Susan Cappello. The funeral on Friday, Oct. 31, was followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery. Contributions can be made in her memory to Are You Dense Inc., 96 Rowley Road, Woodbury, CT 06798. For more information or to send e-condolences, visit www. chaseparkwaymemorial.com.

James E. Ericson

Veteran and Watertown firefighter James E. Ericson, 78, of Oakville died Monday, Nov. 17, 2014, at Waterbury Hospital after a brief illness. He was the husband of Edith (Barton) Ericson.

Elias Papoutsis

Loving husband and father Mr. Elias Papoutsis, 83, of Middlebury, passed away peacefully at Waterbury Hospital Monday, Nov. 17, 2014, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was the husband of Nora (Papadopoulos) Papoutsis. Elias was born in Vatousa, Greece, on Dec. 2, 1930, a son of the late Yianni and Merope (Kaloniatou) Papoutsis. He was an electrician in Greece, and in August 1968, he immigrated with his family to the United States. He worked for Scovill Manufacturing, Century Brass and the Fosdick Corporation until his retirement in 1995. He devoted his life to his beloved Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Waterbury as chantor, Greek School teacher, a volunteer at their annual Greek Festival and so much more. He was honored by the Greek community as “Greek Mayor of the Day” and “Father of the Year,” an honor which he established at the church, and was also a Sons of Pericles Hall of Fame honoree. He was one of the founding members of PAIDEIA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to

Ruth (Charbonneau) Rooney Middlebury’s first police woman

Ruth (Charbonneau) Rooney, 89, of Woodbury passed away with her family by her side Wednesday, Nov. 5, at Waterbury Hospital after a brief illness. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Rooney. Ruth was born July 2, 1925. Ruth was the first official police woman as well as a police and fire dispatcher in Middlebury. She worked for the post office for over 30 years. Ruth drove a school bus, worked at Kmart, and volunteered for the Red Cross and American Heart Association. Ruth was a member/veteran of the Middlebury Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. Ruth is survived by five children, Jean Dawes and her husband, Robert, of Middlebury; Robert Charbonneau and his wife, Cathy, of Hurley, Wisc.; Donn Charbonneau and his wife, Judy, of Washington; Linda Carl-

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Joan M. Wooster

Former president Church of the Infinite Spirit Joan M. (Chesnavich) (Cassidy) Wooster, 78, of Wolcott passed away peacefully Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2014, at the Vitas Innovation Hospice Care Unit at Saint Mary’s Hospital. She was the widow of Homer P. Wooster Jr. Joan was born in Waterbury Jan. 1, 1936, the daughter of Walter Anthony and Margaret (Rikteraitis) Chesnavich, and lived most of her life in Oakville and Waterbury. She graduated from South School in Oakville in 1949 as valedictorian and Watertown High School in 1953 as one of the top five highest-ranking students in the class. Later in life she attended Tunxis Community College in Farmington, where she studied graphic arts and design. She worked as a secretary for many years and, after studying

Trust & Dignity

The Bee-Intelligencer

December 2014

Year-end tax planning It is now December and, along then later that same year pay with holiday shopping and family the next Jan. 1 bill in Decemgatherings, you should add yearber, thus making three payend tax planning to your list of ments in the one calendar year things to do before the New Year. (including the July 1 payment). By MARK A. BURNS Here are a few ideas to think This might be sufficient to enabout. next year, consider making able you to exceed the stan1. Consider making certain taxthem before year end instead. dard deduction. deductible payments in DeThis includes non-cash dona- 4. If you have a cash method cember rather than January to tions such as used clothing and business, consider prepaying get the tax benefit on this year’s household effects. (Make sure certain expenses in December tax return rather than a year you get receipts and are preand deferring income into from now. Examples are your pared to show the IRS how you 2015 if possible. Similarly if real estate tax payment that is arrived at the amount you wish you are planning on acquiring due Jan. 1, fourth-quarter estito claim for tax purposes.) business assets early next year, mated state (but not federal) 3. Bunch deductions – You are consider doing that in 2014 to tax payments and medical exallowed to take a standard deaccelerate the depreciation on penses (if you are going to have duction of $6,200 if single those assets. sufficient expenses in this cat($12,400 if married) or actual 5. Take advantage of tax-deductegory to get a tax benefit — 7.5 itemized deductions, whichible contributions into tradito 10 percent of your income). ever is higher. If your actual tional IRAs and other IRS-apAlso, if you are going to owe deductions are close to the proved retirement accounts. taxes on your state tax return standard amount but not quite 6. If you are over 59-½ and are in come April 15, you might want there, consider bunching dea low tax bracket, consider to pay that before Dec. 31. ductions every other year. For taking extra distributions out This year’s Middlebury Lions Club ornament. (Submitted photo) 2. If you are contemplating makexample, pay your Jan. 1 real of your IRA account, which ing donations to charity early estate tax bill in January and could get those funds out tax

Diversified Tax Tidbits

Middlebury store on Lions’ holiday ornament

The Middlebury Lions’ Club 2014 holiday ornament features the nostalgia of The Middlebury Store, a Middlebury institution for over 100 years. First known as The Bissell Store, the building was moved from its original site at Westover School about 1908. In 1940, it was rebuilt after it was destroyed by fire. Over the years it operated under several names including The Middlebury Store and Ferrante and Delaney. This building also housed the post office and for many years overlooked the Judd’s Corner Trolley Stop. The structure, though modified, became Perrotti’s Pizza and exists today as Pies and Pints at the

intersection of West Street and Store Avenue. Proceeds from ornament sales support the many local as well as national Lions Club causes. Ornaments are provided with a ribbon for hanging at $20 each or $25 with a stand for placement on a table or mantel. They are available the first week in December at Sullivan’s Jewelers, Larry’s Package Store, the Middlebury tax collector’s office at Town Hall and at the Parks and Recreation Department at Shepardson Community Center. They were produced by Hestia Creations of Marblehead, Mass. in hand-painted acrylic.

Pomperaug High School Varsity Games Dec. 1 to 31, 2014 Boys’ Basketball

Wednesday, Dec. 17............. New Milford (A)..................................... 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22.................. Joel Barlow (H)...................................... 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 27................. Northwestern (H)................................... 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30.................. Middletown (H)7................................... 7 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball

Wednesday, Dec. 10............. Norwich Free Academy (A)................ 5:15 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12..................... Masuk Tip-off Tournament (A).................... TBA Friday, Dec. 19..................... Newtown Tournament (A)....................... 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20................. Newtown Tournament (A)........................... TBA Tuesday, Dec. 23.................. Kolbe Cathedral (H)............................... 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 27................. Plainville Holiday Tournament (A)........... 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 29.................. Plainville Holiday Tournament (A)............... TBA

Ice Hockey

Wednesday, Dec. 10............. Shepaug Jamboree (A)..................... 7:15 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13................. Shelton Jamboree (A)............................ 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17............. Trumbull (H).......................................... 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20................. Wilton (A)......................................... 8:50 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22.................. Fermi/Enfield/E. Granby/Stafford (H).... 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 27................. Trinity Catholic (H)............................ 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 29.................. Stamford (A)............................................. TBA

Boys Indoor Track

Friday, Dec. 19..................... New Haven Invitational (A)......................... TBA Saturday, Dec. 27................. Wesleyan Invitational (A)........................... TBA

Girls Indoor Track

Friday, Dec. 19..................... New Haven Invitational (A)......................... TBA Saturday, Dec. 27................. Wesleyan Invitational (A)........................... TBA

Boys’ Swimming and Diving

Tuesday, Dec. 23.................. Joel Barlow (A)...................................... 4 p.m.

Wrestling

Wednesday, Dec. 17............. Masuk (H)............................................. 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20................. Pomperaug Holiday Invitational (H)........ 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 27................. Frank Chaves Invitational (A).................9 a.ml. (H) Home (A) Away

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free or at very small tax cost. 7. Capital losses – If you have unused capital losses carried over from prior years from selling investments, or have generated such losses earlier in 2014, consider selling other investments where you have gains. This could make those gains effectively tax free. The above ideas are very general and may not apply to all people. Factors that need to be considered are whether or not you are subject to the Alternative Minimum Tax or AMT (a topic in itself ), whether you take the standard deduction or itemize, and also if you expect to be in a different tax bracket this year versus next year. Make sure you consult with your tax adviser. Mark A. Burns, M.B.A. is a C.P.A. with Diversified Financial Solutions PC in Southbury. He can be reached at 203-264-3131 or Mark@DFSPC.biz.

Start saving while on limited budget

Trying to save on a limited income can be tough, but it’s not impossible. What’s required is the determination to succeed at saving. Here are some ideas for getting started. • Make holiday gift giving for the kids only this year. Let the adults in your circle of family and friends know you’ll be limiting the gifts you buy. Chances are they will be relieved. • Stick to your list at the grocery store. No extras, even if you find a bargain. There will be new bargains next week. • Use your tax refund next year to buy savings bonds, up to a limit of $5,000 per year. The Series I bonds can be purchased with some or all of your refund. You’ll need to file a Form 8888, Allocation of Re-

fund (Including Bond Purchases). This needs to be done in $50 increments. Years down the road when you cash in your bonds, you’ll need to pay taxes on the interest. The term of ownership is a minimum of one year, so be sure your emergency fund is in place before you commit all of your refund. If you redeem the bonds before five years, you forfeit the three most recent months of interest. The benefit of having money tucked away in savings bonds is that you can’t access it on a whim.

Living life in the present While it can be helpful to periodically examine our past actions and experiences to learn from our mistakes and draw inspiration, confidence and strength from our victories, it can be unproductive if we overdo it. Thinking excessively about the past can rob us of valuable time to focus on what is truly important, namely what we need to be doing in the present. The same is true with regard to thinking about the future. We certainly should have our goals clearly in mind as we go through each day, do our best to anticipate future obstacles and challenges, and approach the future with a sense of purpose and positive expectancy, but thinking too much about what we could do or what might happen can detract from what we should be doing right now. It’s important to recognize that the more time and energy we spend thinking about the past and future, the less we have available to focus on making the right decisions and implementing the appropriate behaviors to deal with the critically important here and now. Furthermore, we usually can’t change or duplicate what happened yesterday, and rarely can we accurately predict or influence what will happen tomorrow. The only things we really have control over are those that are happening in our lives in the present. Focusing too much on the past or future can be especially unproductive if our thoughts are negative. People who hash over past mistakes, failures and disappointments can bring a great deal of negative energy to the present, which can diminish self-confidence and significantly undermine their current efforts toward success and happiness. Similarly, those who worry excessively about the future not only often worry unnecessarily, they also can fail to recognize opportunities to appreciate the value and joy of their current moments. It is natural to be drawn to thoughts about our past and future, but life is lived in the present, one moment at a time. We need to continually try to stay focused on the now of our life – what we can do now, what we can say now, how we are feeling now, what we believe now and what we want to happen now. Yesterday is gone forever, and tomorrow will be here soon enough. Now is the time to capture the moment to hug that child, compliment a coworker, apologize for

Winning Ways By Pat Iannuzzi Insights for Constructive Living

something we are sincerely sorry for or take advantage of an opportunity. After all, the past is only a memory and the future is just a possibility. They are simply illusions. Neither really exists. If there are changes we’d like to make in life, we need to accept life as it is and recognize that now is the time to take action. If we’re living in the past, we can’t do anything about it; it’s gone. If we’re worrying about the future, we’re living somewhere that hasn’t happened yet. If we want to make changes in our lives, the only time is the present. Today is the present of your life and mine. Today is when our tomorrows are born and our yesterdays are buried. Today is when our future outcomes and our memories of them are created. Let’s appreciate and take full advantage of today, for we will not be experiencing it again. “The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past or worry about the future, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly.” – Buddha Pat Iannuzzi of Symbiont Performance Group, Inc. is a performance consultant, trainer and coach focusing on selling, presentation and interpersonal skills. He lives in Litchfield and can be reached at 860-283-9963 or piannuzzi@symbiontnet.com.

• Ask for reductions in costs for cable, auto insurance and other payments. Chances are they’d rather work with you than lose you as a customer. Put the extra money into savings. • Buy second-hand where you can. Careful shopping can get you nearly new clothing and small appliances at Salvation Army or Goodwill stores. Put the extra money into savings. • Consider taking a temporary part-time job. Retail (especially during the holiday season) is a good place to start. • Don’t let yourself get hungry. Sounds odd, but the truth is that if you’re away from home,

you’re more likely to cave in and venture into a restaurant. The same goes for grocery shopping: Eat before you go to keep from succumbing to the temptations on every aisle. • If you have extra room in your house, consider using AirBnB as a way to rent out space to visitors for a few days. Price your space lower than local hotels and save the money. David Uffington regrets he cannot personally answer reader questions, but he will incorporate them into his column whenever possible. Send email to columnreply2@gmail.com. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.

Middlebury Volunteer Fire Department Call Log Date Time Address/Incident 10-27 13:59 49 Yale Ave. Lawn tractor fire. Extinguished by PD3 with fire extinguisher and homeowner’s garden hose. Murray riding tractor. 10-29 16:09 500 Woodside Ave. Fire alarm activated. Caused by microwave popcorn. Alarm reset. 10-31 00:37 705 Breakneck Hill Road. Carbon monoxide alarm activation. Zero readings. Homeowner advised to change batteries in detectors. 11-01 16:31 253 Three Mile Hill Road. Fully involved vehicle fire. 11-02 12:56 Route 188. Tree fell on wires. Blocking road. CL&P and Conn. Dept. of Transportation contacted. 11-02 14:44 Hop Brook Park. Small fire in barbecue pit. 11-04 17:05 Route 64. Two-car motor vehicle accident. No injuries. Campion took two refusals. 11-06 09:37 459 Straits Turnpike. Furnace malfunction. Everything found to be normal. Alarm reset. 11-06 13:11 I-84 West. Three-car motor vehicle accident. Four occupants. Three were transported by Campion Ambulance. 11-07 08:53 Straits Turnpike at Park Road. Two-car motor vehicle accident. Minor injuries. One patient transported by Campion. 11-07 17:56 I-84 West. Vehicle fire. Left rear tire. Fire extinguished. Vehicle removed from roadway. 11-09 14:31 I-84 West. Motor vehicle accident. No injuries. 11-11 10:54 I-84 West. Motor vehicle accident in Waterbury. 11-11 16:02 Steeplechase Drive. One-car motor vehicle accident. Patient transported to hospital. 11-11 17:11 Straits Turnpike. Four-car motor vehicle accident. One patient transported. 11-11 20:20 North Benson Road. Motor vehicle accident. No injuries. 11-12 07:21 11 Nutmeg Road. Activated fire alarm set off by cook. Reset alarm. 11-18 20:51 930 Straits Turnpike. Mild smoke in the building with odor. Nothing found. Possible HVAC start-up smell. 11-21 15:35 I-84 East. Two-car motor vehicle accident. One patient transported by MVFD. Two patients transported by Southbury. 11-22 05:59 431 Three Mile Hill Road. Furnace malfunction set off alarm.

The Bee-Intelligencer

December 2014

Panthers seniors own night By T.J. OSTRANDER

1. Entering 2014, when was the last time the Los Angeles Dodgers won an N.L. pennant? 2. Three times in the 1990s, a pitcher led the American League in wins, strikeouts and ERA in the same season. Name either of the pitchers to do it. 3. In 1999, Wisconsin’s Ron Dayne became the fourth running back to rush for 1,000-plus yards each of four consecutive seasons. Name the first to do it. 4. Gregg Popovich currently is the longest-tenured coach in the NBA. What year did he take over the San Antonio Spurs? 5. The Detroit Red Wings have made 23 consecutive NHL playoff appearances. Who was their coach the last time they didn’t reach the playoffs? 6. Name the first Central American men’s soccer team to win a World Cup game. 7. Who was the last Italian cyclist before Vincenzo Nibali in 2014 to win the Tour de France?

Answers: 1. It was 1988 the last time the Dodgers won the World Series. 2. Roger Clemens (1997, ‘98) and Pedro Martinez (1999). 3. Pittsburgh’s Tony Dorsett (1973-76). 4. It was 1996. 5. Jacques Demers, in the 198990 season. 6. Costa Rica, in 1990. 7. Marco Pantani, in 1998. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.

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The Panthers’ Nov. 14 home game against the Joel Barlow Falcons couldn’t have been scripted any better. Before the game, the Panthers seniors were honored; during the game they dominated. The Panthers snapped their threegame losing streak, beating Barlow 27-14. The Pomperaug defense made tremendous strides in previous weeks and kept it rolling Friday by turning in one of their best defensive performances of the season. The Falcons immediately tried to establish the run game on the Panthers during their first drive. However, from the first play, the Panthers were ready to set the tone for the evening. The Falcons found themselves punting after three consecutive run plays were stonewalled by Pomperaug. The punt was muffed by the Panthers and the Falcons fell on top of it, setting themselves up with excellent field position. “Our team was extremely physical, more physical than I think we’ve been all season long,” Coach James Reed said about his defensive unit. The team’s physicality showed just two plays after they turned the ball over to Joel Barlow. The Falcons ran the ball yet again, and the ball popped out as the Panthers swarmed. Spencer Pope, who had fumbled the ball on the punt return, redeemed himself only two plays later as he recovered the loose ball for the Panthers. Despite the defensive success, the Panthers offense had been struggling mightily coming into Friday night’s game. Last week, the team could muster only 13 points in their loss at Masuk. Friday, they clearly were a different team. Quarterback Wade Prajer used his legs early as he slashed the Falcon defense and pushed the ball downfield. Then he connected with Troy Sullivan on a crucial third down play to keep the Panther drive alive. Eventually, Prajer found old reliable Jimmy Christiano for a 37-yard touchdown pass. The Panthers had

Pomperaug High School’s offensive line gets set to square off with the Joel Barlow Falcons’ defense on a goal-line play in the second quarter of their Nov. 14 game. The Panthers worked hard to earn a 27-14 win over the Falcons. (T.J. Ostrander photo) drawn first blood, leading 7-0 with 6:02 left in the first quarter. The Falcons, however, showed they were not willing to go down easily. After a great kick return brought them onto the Pomperaug side of the field, their running game finally found a hole in the Panthers’ defense. Quarterback Bryan Gallaer ran 28 yards for a Falcon touchdown, tying the game at 7-7 with 3:17 to go in the opening quarter. Prajer continued to assert his dominance early into the second quarter. Joel Barlow had forced Pomperaug into a tough fourthdown situation deep on their side of the field. Reed elected to go for it instead of taking a field goal try, and the decision paid off. Prajer found Mike Curcio wide open for a touchdown, giving the lead back to Pomperaug. It was now 14-7 with 10:20 left in the second quarter. The relentless Pomperaug defense kept at it, as Barlow fumbled and the Panthers’ Kevin Nadler recovered. The Panthers were in a position they hadn’t really been

in all season – they had a chance to take a two-score lead. Pomperaug gave Prajer’s arm a break on the drive; using their running attack, the Panthers put the ball in for another score. This time it was Dean Guerrera taking it across the goal-line for Pomperaug. The Panthers lead was extended to 21-7 with 5 minutes left in the first half. Spencer Pope recovered his second fumble of the day on the ensuing kickoff. The Falcon defense, however, buckled down in the second quarter, and neither team scored again before halftime. The Panthers took a 21-7 lead to the locker room. The Panthers came out in the second half ready to play. Having lost three consecutive games, they were ready to make sure this one didn’t get away from them. Using their ground attack, the Panthers ran the ball down the Falcons’ throat. Jake Hardwell had some key runs, and Prajer took a 1-yard quarterback sneak across the goal line. The Panthers upped their lead to 27-7 with 9 minutes left in the third quarter.

Joel Barlow was not ready to give in quite yet though. It took the Falcons only 1:50 to drive the length of the field for a touchdown, capped off by a 50-yard dash. The Falcons were back in the game trailing 27-14 with 7:20 left in the third. Penalties threw the Panther offense out of whack for the rest of the game, and they did not score again. The Panther defense rose to the occasion, protecting the team’s 13-point lead. The game moved into the fourth quarter with the score still 27-14. With the offense still sputtering, the Panther defense held off the Falcons in the fourth quarter. Key sacks of the quarterback by Tom Satkowski, Sullivan and Christiano led the way. The Falcons were never able to move the ball past midfield in the fourth quarter, and time ran out on them. Pomperaug had snapped their losing streak with a 27-14 win. Senior Wade Prajer led the way for the Panthers. He threw two touchdowns and ran for one as well. Not to be overlooked was the

effective defensive and special teams play. Prajer delivered some bone-crushing tackles and also did an excellent job punting for the team. “Wade is a guy who is such a great athlete, the more he’s involved the better he plays,” Reed said of his star quarterback. The Panthers move to 4-6 on their season, while Joel Barlow falls to 4-6. Pomperaug’s last game of the season was to be Nov. 26, the night before Thanksgiving, when they played Notre DameFairfield (ND) at 7 p.m. Going into the game the Panthers were expected to see one of their best offensive performances of the season as ND had allowed the opposition at least a 27-point lead in every game this season and their record stood at 0-9 after they lost to Brookfield 52-14 Nov. 15. Editor’s note: Due to the holiday, the newspaper was printed before the latest game results were available. See results at www.bee-news.com.

Waterbury Hospital’s

2014

Humanitarian of the

Year

Kristaps Keggi, MD, Dr. Med. (h.c.) Orthopaedic Surgeon and Elihu Professor of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation at Yale University School of Medicine

World-Renowned Pioneer in Orthopaedic Surgery Internationally known for his expertise in orthopaedic surgery, Dr. Keggi played an instrumental role in building Waterbury Hospital’s world-class orthopaedic surgery program. Dr. Keggi pioneered the anterior approach to total hip arthoplasty, a muscle-sparing, minimally invasive approach, and is currently working with colleagues on a book about this method. For more than 50 years, Dr. Keggi has been teaching and training orthopaedic surgeons at the Yale University School of Medicine, but his devotion to medicine and orthopaedics spans the globe. Through the Keggi Orthopaedic Foundation, founded by Dr. Keggi, hundreds of surgeons and other medical professionals from 12 different countries have been granted fellowships so they could learn and be trained in more modern surgical techniques—with Waterbury Hospital as their training site. Beyond his outstanding contributions to the field of orthopaedics and training generations of surgeons, Dr. Keggi is known as a mentor, friend, colleague, and “Renaissance man.” As one colleague described him, “Dr. Keggi exemplifies all that a member of the human race should do.” The 2014 Humanitarian Award was presented to Dr. Keggi at Waterbury Hospital’s 15th Annual Gala on Saturday, November 15, 2014 at La Bella Vista in Waterbury.

Congratulations and thank you, Dr. Keggi, for your visionary leadership.

www.waterburyhospital.org

The Bee-Intelligencer

Gluten-free pets? DEAR PAW’S CORNER: It seems like everyone is hopping on the gluten-free bandwagon these days, including my friend, who has put her entire family on a gluten-free diet – including her two dogs! Is such a strict diet healthy for pets? – Clara in San Diego DEAR CLARA: For dogs, as long as their nutritional needs are being met – getting enough calories to maintain a healthy weight, along with enough protein and vital nutrients – a gluten-free diet should not be harmful at all. In fact, some premium dog foods (dry and wet) are being marketed as gluten-free. As to whether all of them are truly gluten-free, I can’t say – there is little or no regulation in how pet foods are labeled. Is gluten-free truly helpful for dogs and cats? Again, no one can say for certain. But I’ve heard plenty of anecdotes from fellow pet owners – their pets have increased energy, or their fur coats are shinier, and many even say that certain behavior problems have gone away on this type of diet. I’ve also heard the same from proponents of the raw food diet,

December 2014

Viso Bello celebrates 25 years By MARJORIE NEEDHAM

the all-organic diet and brewer’s yeast supplements. Regardless of the type of diet, it’s always beneficial to pets when their owners take a deep interest in what they eat and where their food comes from. They monitor their pets more closely, and that attention can help reveal other causes of behavior or health issues beyond a dietary cause. They also tend to be in closer contact with their pets’ veterinarians, meaning their pets get routine care, vaccinations and other health checks on schedule. That’s great for pets’ health overall. So, don’t worry about your neighbors’ dogs. If they look healthy and happy and wellcared-for, the type of food they eat is not a problem. Send your questions or comments to ask@pawscorner.com. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.

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Viso Bello Day Spa in Middlebury is celebrating its 25th birthday this December with a “sparty” Wednesday, Dec. 10, from 3 to 9 p.m. at the spa at 900 Straits Turnpike in Middlebury. The event will include a 5:45 p.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Greater Waterbury Chamber of Commerce, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, prizes and gift card promotions. If you plan to attend, please RSVP by Dec. 1 to Dan@visobello.com. Co-owner Dan Settani Jr. said of the business, “I really like this business. I like what we do. We offer a time away from life. People come here just to get away from the rigors of daily life.” He didn’t always work at the spa. When he was younger, “Go West, young man” was calling to him and he moved to California, where he worked for Paramount Pictures. In 2006, he gave up his West Coast living, returned to his Connecticut roots and became Viso Bello’s spa director. “I kind of came home and never looked back,” Dan said. He does return to California once a year to visit friends he made while living there. After his mother retired in 2012, Dan Jr. bought the spa along with his best friend since fourth grade, Andrew O’Hazo. Dan Jr. said O’Hazo is the spa’s chief financial officer and mainly works behind the scenes. Dan Jr. attributes the spa’s success to five things that set it apart from other spas: • Affordable memberships for monthly massages and facials • Complimentary LED multi-light therapy after facials • Having the aestheticians stay in the room with clients throughout their appointment, providing services such as arm, foot and lower leg massages. • Complimentary makeup touchups following facials • Eminence organic skin care products for peels, toner and serums. Dan Jr. initiated the monthly massage membership program in 2008. Members pay $64 a month for one 60-minute massage (normally $100). If they want a second or third massage in the same month, the cost is $50 each. There also is a membership program for those who prefer a 90-minute massage.

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One of three couples massage rooms at Viso Bello Day Spa lets couples share their massage experience. (Submitted photos) The most recent membership program is the skin-care membership, or facial membership. Instead of paying $115, members pay $83 a month for a facial, which is followed by a complimentary LED multi-light therapy and a complimentary makeup touch-up. When Grace Medical Aesthetics opened, Dan Jr. entered into a collaboration with them to provide laser hair removal to his clients. Viso Bello also offers Versa spray tanning. A tanning membership is $45 a month. Additional services can be found online at visobello.com, where you also can purchase gift certificates, book an appointment or take advantage of one of the daily specials. Viso Bello was owned by Patricia and Dan Settani Sr. when it opened its doors Dec. 15, 1989, as Beaux Visages. The first tenant in a brand new building, it offered facials and makeup. Manicures and pedicures were added later. The original spa space was 3,400 square feet. In 2009, the spa expanded into an additional 1,963 square feet, and in 2012, it expanded into another 2,225 square feet, part of which is occupied by Grace Medical Aesthetics. Another 2,060 square feet is taken up by offices, a laundry and a break room for employees. All told, Dan Jr said, the spa now fills about 9,800 square feet. He said, “We did this (the expansion) when everything was falling apart. And we were able to continue hiring.” The business has grown to 30 employees in 2014 from the 12 employees it had

Viso Bello Day Spa co-owner Dan Settani Jr. will host a 25th birthday party for the business Dec. 10. The spa was founded in 1989 by his parents. when Dan Jr. became the spa director in 2006. The business also has undergone cosmetic changes. “I like keeping everything fresh and new,” Dan Jr. said. “We changed the whole front area in 2013 to 2014. Now we’ll work on the waiting area in 2015.”

Viso Bello can be reached at 203-598-7525 or Contactvb@ visobello.com. The spa is open Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday and Tuesday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Wednesday 12 to 9 p.m., Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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PET OF THE MONTH iesel is a rescue kitty who was saved. When he was 3 weeks old, D someone put him in a plastic bag they knotted and threw away. He’s now 6 months old and has four other rescue siblings.

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The Bee-Intelligencer

December 2014

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A crowd stands in the lobby at the Nov. 13 Connecticut Siting Council hearing on the CPV Power Plant. They were not able to get into the conference room due to space limitations.

Power plant opposition grows

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About 100 residents of Oxford, Middlebury, Southbury and Naugatuck gathered at the Connecticut Siting Council in New Britain Nov. 13 to protest an application by Massachusetts-based Competitive Power Ventures (CPV) to build a power plant near the Oxford Airport off Woodruff Hill Road. Approval from the council is necessary for CPV’s request to expand to 805 megawatts the permits issued in 1999 for a 512-megawatt plant. The council decided to reopen the docket and schedule a series of public hearings on conditions that have changed since the original approvals. Nearly 15 years ago, the Town of Middlebury and some of its citizens loudly, and in some cases with legal action, protested the building of a large power plant within 500 feet of the Middlebury town line and very close to Middlebury homes in the Washington Drive area. Although the plant was approved, construction never started. Now CPV proposes to begin construction of the plant. Oxford First Selectman George Temple has spoken in favor of the plant because of its construction jobs and tax benefits, but Middlebury First Selectman Edward B. St. John spoke against it at the Aug. 4, 2014, Board of Selectmen meeting, saying, “We will fight the fight. We fought it before and we will fight it again.” The selectmen appointed Ray Pietrorazio as liaison to the airport and the power plant project. Pietrorazio and attorney Steve Savarese attended the Nov. 13 meeting as intervenors representing the interests of the town. Now a broad coalition of Oxford residents operating under the name “Stop Towantic Power,” has responded to the proposed Towantic Power Plant at Oxford Airport by issuing a press release saying natural gas (and oil) power plants add dangerous pollutants to the air that seriously impact the health of people within a 10-mile radius. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has linked air pollutants with cancer, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, respiratory symptoms, reproductive issues and birth defects. The following statements are attributable to Stop Towantic Power. The plant also will create water problems, both in sourcing and disposal. When operating on natural gas, it will consume 40,000 gallons per day; in oil mode, it will use 750,000 gallons

State Sen. Joan Hartley, left, talks to attorney Steve Savarese outside the Connecticut Siting Council in New Britain Nov. 13. (Terrence S. McAuliffe photos) per day. Stop Towantic Power believes that consuming such a large amount of water could disrupt our aquifer and cause water shortages. That water, which is used to scrub the two 150-foot stacks, will ultimately be discharged into the Naugatuck River, contaminating it and harming fish, plants and wildlife. Connecticut has signed a Department of Energy pledge to the 20/20 program: 20 percent of its energy coming from renewable sources by the year 2020. We are currently at 3 percent. The construction of the Towantic Power Plant would render that goal unachievable. It is also out of step with the federal government’s recommendation of building micro-energy plants as opposed to macro-energy producers. National research studies have

shown property values will decline, offsetting any increase in tax revenue; air traffic will experience additional risks from the extremely hot plume being emitted from the smokestacks; and a safety risk will be introduced into populated areas. Stop Towantic Power urges concerned citizens to write to the Connecticut Siting Council (Ten Franklin Square, New Britain, CT 06051), their state and federal legislative representatives, local media and especially to Oxford town officials to express their displeasure and disapproval. The group is encouraging people to attend a Thursday, Dec. 11, rally in New Britain at the Connecticut Siting Council. Details will be published on their web site, stoptowanticpower. com.

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The Bee-Intelligencer

Add sparkle to your holiday decor By MELINDA MYERS Liven up your holiday decor with lights, a bit of glitz and some colorful blossoms this season. Start by gathering greenery from your landscape. Use needled evergreens like pines and firs; broadleaf evergreens like boxwood, holly and evergreen magnolia; as well as junipers and arborvitaes to create wreaths, swags, centerpieces and garland. And don’t forget to include cones, holly berries, crabapples and the bluish-colored fruit of junipers. Be selective as you prune your trees and shrubs when collecting these materials. Use sharp bypass pruners that have two sharp blades and will make a clean cut that closes more quickly. Make your cuts above a healthy bud, where the branches join another branch, or back to the main trunk. Take only a few branches from each tree or shrub to maintain the plants’ beauty. Place freshly cut greens in a cool location away from heaters, fireplaces and open flames. Set them on colorful fabric or paper to catch the sap and avoid damaging your woodwork and furnishings. Check your greenery for freshness every few days. The needles, leaves and stems should bend, but not break. Replace dried greens with fresh materials. Then brighten up the display with some cool-burning LED lights. Create a mantle display or centerpiece with the help of LED pillar lights. Or add a string of LEDs to your garland. Look for something unusual like pinecone string lights (gardeners. com) to add sparkle and charm to your display. If you have artificial greens that could use a facelift, add fresh berries, cones and seedpods for a more natural look. Increase the glitz with the help of silver and gold metallic paint or glitter. Paint milkweed, lotus and other pods

December 2014

Winterizing: Shutter repair

My mother’s house has wooden louver shutters that have stayed open on either side of the windows outside the house for years and years. Many of them are in disrepair. Are they worth saving, or should I replace them? – Jim H., Gardner, Mass.

Greenery combined with decorative LED lights can brighten up holiday centerpieces and mantle displays. (Melinda Myers LLC photo) and then tuck them into the greens. Painting allium seed heads white will add the appearance of flowery snowflakes in your indoor arrangements and outdoor container gardens. And don’t forget the fresh flowers and flowering plants. Poinsettias are a long-time favorite, but you may want to change things up with amaryllis, spring-flowering bulbs and lily of the valley. Look for unusual varieties or combinations to increase your enjoyment. Combine large-flowered amaryllis with small-flowering bulbs like star of Bethlehem. Or go for a unique size, shape or flower color like that of the Honeybee amaryllis with its beautiful yellow flowers that are sure to brighten your days. Add a few flowers to your greenery and houseplants for some instant color. Stick your

greenery and flowers in dampened floral foam to create a long-lasting holiday centerpiece. Or place cut flowers in floral picks and set them in dish gardens and houseplants to brighten things up. Then swap out the flowers as they fade. And consider making a few extra planters or centerpieces to give as holiday and hostess gifts this year. Now is the time to put on your gardening shoes, grab the pruners and get started decorating for the holiday season ahead. Gardening expert, TV/radio host, author and columnist Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written more than 20 gardening books. Her website, www. melindamyers.com, offers gardening videos, podcasts and tips.

The decision to repair or replace the shutters is ultimately yours. But here are some factors you can consider as you make that decision. • How many shutters are on the house? You would likely need to replace all of them if you’re refreshing the exterior. Shutter replacement can cost between $35 and $55 per shutter. • Are the current shutters of good quality or unique design? You may not be able to find a match. • Would the time and effort involved in repairing the shutters be more than the cost of replacement? • Consider what it will take to remove each shutter, the amount of repair needed, the hours it will take to accomplish the repair and the cost of the supplies needed to fix them. If you decide to replace the shutters, count how many you’ll need. To save money, you might consider replacing just the most heavily damaged with matching or near-matching shutters and

By Samantha Mazzotta then finish replacing the rest when it’s more convenient. The risk you run, of course, is not being able to purchase the same shutters later. Find the manufacturer name and details about the shutter (like dimensions), if possible. In newer shutters, the information may be found on a sticker or tag on the inside frame edge. If there is no information, measure the height and width of the shutter. You also should measure the shutters on the second floor and any additional floors or attic windows, if the house has them, as the dimensions may vary. Then order the shutters you’ll need along with new hardware. If you decide to repair the shutters, determine which are the most damaged, which need no repair, and which need some repair or just touchups or repainting. Schedule a few hours each day or weekend to remove one set of shutters at a time and repair them. Here’s the link to a video that details how to repair damaged exterior wooden shutters: http:// www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/ video/0,,1632408,00.html.

As the video points out, often the joints of the shutters separate, causing the louvers to slip out of place. Here’s another video that shows how a decorative shutter with minor wood rot is repaired in place: http://www.todays h o m e o w n e r. c o m / v i d e o / how-to-repair-exterior-woodshutters/. If louvers are badly damaged or rotted, you should be able to find replacements in the same dimensions at your home-improvement store. Send your questions or home tips to ask@thisisahammer.com. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.

Exterior shutters need little maintenance if they’re in good shape. Brush away debris and dirt when needed, and keep shrubs and other plants trimmed back. P UZZLE SOLUTIONS:

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